- 
- 
- 
- 
- 
- 
- 
- 
- 
- 
- 
- $10 million in new funding to support the arts
10 May 2011 — $10 million in new funding to support the arts
The Gillard Government has delivered on its election commitment to provide $10 million over five years in new support for young and emerging artists.
This new program provides funding for the creation of new Australian work across all art forms and will assist artists to build more sustainable careers.
Arts Minister Simon Crean said this new grants program will have a strong focus on increasing access to and participation in the arts for those living outside major metropolitan areas.
“The Gillard Government promised greater assistance to new and emerging artists last year and we are delivering with $10 million in new money for the Australia Council,” Mr Crean said.
“The $10 million will fund up to 150 additional artistic works, presentations and fellowships over five years,’’ Mr Crean said.
Finding room for this funding in a Budget that makes substantial savings to return to surplus in 2012/13 shows the strength of the Government’s commitment to support young and emerging artists.
“This significant investment demonstrates the Government’s leadership in encouraging all Australians to have the same opportunities to engage, practise and pursue a career in the arts,” Mr Crean said.
“Access to cultural activity for everyone, whatever their personal circumstances, background or location, is integral to building a society which fosters creativity.
“Building participation in the arts enriches regional communities and enhances the creative output of our nation. A creative nation is a productive nation,” Minister Crean said.
The program will deliver grants of:
- up to $80,000 per annum for new artistic works, including visual arts, performing arts, literature, new media and music;
- up to $50,000 per annum for additional presentations to Australian audiences, including to communities outside the major metropolitan areas; and
- $60,000 or more for fellowships for Australia’s young and emerging artists and mid-career artists.
Artists developing new content for distribution through the National Broadband Network or showcasing distinctive Australian work overseas may also be supported through this initiative.
The program is also aligned to the Government’s National Arts and Disability Strategy and supports social inclusion by increasing opportunities for Australian artists and audiences that would otherwise not have access to, or significantly reduced access to, funding for arts and cultural activities.
Media contacts
Mr Crean’s office: Clinton Porteous: 02 6277 7380/ 0403 369 588 or Colleen O’Sullivan 0409 282 143
Office for the Arts: 02 6275 9574 or 0488 490 987
