A new $22.5 million Arts and Cultural Recovery Package will focus on stabilising local arts companies and securing jobs for artists and arts workers, as an important part of the Queensland Government’s COVID-19 recovery plan.
Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk said the funding – included in the second stage of the Unite and Recover for Queensland Jobs plan – will be a significant investment in the future of Queensland’s arts sector and the renewed cultural and economic development of the state. It will also support COVID safe cultural experiences for Queensland audiences.
“With this new investment, my Government has now committed more than $42.5 million in funding since the onset of COVID-19 restrictions in March, including more than $20 million in relief measures already being implemented to assist the arts sector,” said Ms Palaszczuk.
“This latest recovery package includes a raft of initiatives to strengthen the sector’s foundations for the future, to drive new creative work, employ artists and arts workers, retain our skilled and talented creatives.”
“The funding will boost jobs through the creation of a pipeline of live and local music and other performing arts experiences, including a focus on our independent artists who have been particularly impacted during this time.
“Importantly it ensures the activation of our venues and helps the arts sector move past the economic impacts of COVID-19. Our arts, cultural and creative sector has shown ingenuity and hope, so we’re continuing to support them in finding new ways to connect and inspire us,” said Ms Palaszczuk.
Minister for the Arts Leeanne Enoch said the Palaszczuk Government had already been the first in Australia to respond, with measures to help sustain the sector through the immediate impacts of COVID-19. “This newest recovery package will enable the sector to continue to stabilise, innovate and adapt, and to explore alternative venues, online delivery, and a digital marketplace,” said Minister Enoch.
“It will provide enhanced support for arts companies and festivals to maintain connections with audiences, keep artists and arts workers employed, and provide audiences the opportunity to reconnect with shared arts experiences.”
“Funding will also support the ethical distribution of First Nations arts product through a digital marketplace, expanded sale channels and investing in the growth of the Indigenous Arts Centre (IAC) network.”
“Our arts sector has proven its potential to drive cultural tourism, create employment opportunities and effect positive change in all areas of society including mental health and wellbeing, education and community recovery, and this is critical as we move on from these uncertain times.”
“Queenslanders will be able to engage in arts and culture through the activation of local venues and creative spaces, including infrastructure support that offers unique outdoor experiences. This funding injection will provide the sector with greater financial certainty so that it can emerge with strength to further bolster Queensland’s economic and social recovery efforts,” said Minister Enoch.
For more information, visit: www.arts.qld.gov.au for details.
Image: River of Light – courtesy of Brisbane Festival