Boosting arts in regional and remote communities

The Albanese Labor Government will fund 38 arts projects in regional and remote communities under the first round of the 2022 Regional Arts Fund Project Grants.

Minister for the Arts, Tony Burke, said the grants – worth more than $740,000 – will provide communities with a social and economic boost as they continue to rebuild from a period of prolonged disruption.

“Cultural and artistic experiences underpin the identity of regional and remote communities,” Minister Burke said.

“That is why we’re pleased to support these artists and arts workers diversify their audiences and cultivate creative community engagement.

“These projects will create exciting employment and professional development opportunities, support the creation of diverse artworks and exhibitions, develop new community workshops and digital programs, and encourage cross–industry partnerships – with health and education, through to tourism and hospitality.”

Projects include:

Yirrmal Marika film visual artworks for music singles 'Which Way' and 'Spirit of Place', and press his debut album into vinyl to assist in the promotion of its release later in 2022.
Bianca Acimovic will produce the podcast ‘In Their Words’, connecting with artists and arts workers living and working in regional Queensland, bringing to light the practice of contemporary artists and arts workers. The 12 episode program will be produced from July to December 2022.
Riverland Youth Theatre will host a series of digital theatre-making workshops, run through Minecraft, for young people aged 10 to 14 years. The weekly workshops will run through August and September and will conclude with public performances on Minecraft on 19 and 20 September 2022.
Southern Forest Arts will develop a program of dance workshops over a period of seven months, to create a performance on Canterbury Farm backing onto Boorara National Park, along with a community celebration held on Sunday 19 March 2023.

Around $3.6 million per year is allocated to the Regional Arts Fund to support sustainable cultural development in regional and remote communities in Australia. The program is delivered on behalf of the Australian Government by Regional Arts Australia and organisations in each state and territory.

For more information, including how to apply for funding opportunities, visit: www.arts.gov.au/funding-and-support/regional-arts-fund

This announcement comes as Labor continues consultations for a new National Cultural Policy, which will consider arts in regional and remote communities. All Australians are invited to make submissions at: www.arts.gov.au/culturalpolicy

MEDIA CONTACT: ADAM GARTRELL - 0427 008 525