The Victorian Government is investing in more creative organisations – strengthening the state’s renowned creative scene and ensuring Victorians have access to the best opportunities and events.
Minister for Creative Industries Colin Brooks has announced 81 recipients will receive support through the latest round of the Creative Enterprises Program.
“Victoria is proudly the creative state, and these 81 organisations play an integral part in that – from creating and presenting new creative work and platforming local talent, to events that bring communities together,” said Minister for Creative Industries, Colin Brooks.
“Victoria’s $41.2 billion creative economy supports jobs and helps businesses thrive. This program ensures Victorians of all ages and all parts of the state can make the most of what’s on offer.”
The program provides two to four years of funding for organisations that show leadership in the creative industries and deliver significant social, economic and cultural benefits to the state.
In line with the Government’s newly released Creative State 2028 strategy, this investment will amplify First Peoples storytelling, create more opportunities for young people and make creative experiences more inclusive.
Ten organisations are joining the program for the first time including Birrarangga Film Festival, Kids Own Publishing, which publishes books by kids for kids, and Warrnambool’s Find Your Voice Collective, an inclusive arts organisation engaging people of all ages and abilities in creative experiences.
Eight First Peoples led organisations to receive funding include Black Dot Gallery, Agency Projects, Baluk Arts, Koorie Heritage Trust and The Torch – which delivers visual arts programs and cultural support to First Peoples people currently in, or recently released from, Victorian prisons.
The funded organisations span the state with 17 recipients based in regional areas including Shepparton’s Kaiela Arts, Port Fairy Spring Music Festival, Arts Mildura, Castlemaine live arts organisation Punctum, East Gippsland Art Gallery and Wodonga’s Hothouse Theatre.
The Government is supporting organisations that create work for young people including Western Edge, dance organisation L2R Next Gen Inc, Polyglot Theatre, Arena Theatre in Bendigo and youth music organisation The Push.
The program is backing Victoria’s calendar of creative festivals and events, including Melbourne International Comedy Festival, Melbourne Fringe, Shepparton Festival, Melbourne Writers Festival and Ballarat International Foto Biennale.
Industry peak bodies such as Arts Access Victoria, Music Victoria, Multicultural Arts Victoria and Regional Arts Victoria are also receiving support to continue their important work to strengthen Victoria’s creative sector.
For more information about the Creative Enterprises Program and the full list of recipients, visit: www.creative.vic.gov.au for details.
Image: Together We Create – photo by My Life Through A Lens | Unsplash