The Australian government is inviting all Australians to comment on a discussion paper for the country’s first National Cultural Policy in almost 20 years.
The discussion paper was released by Arts Minister Simon Crean, in bid to hear from people of all backgrounds and how they are inspired by art and culture. The development of the cultural policy is paramount in Australia, a country made up of many different cultures. “Australia is a global melting pot of different people,” said Federal Member for Calwell, Maria Vamvakinou.
“It’s timely that we reassess and more effectively connect the arts and creative industries into the mainstream of modern Australia.” Vamvakinou said that the National Cultural Policy is “fundamental, because the creative arts empower the individual and underpins expression, tolerance and inclusion” and is “long overdue”. The consultation period has begun on the discussion paper and ends on October 21 and feedback from everyone within the community is encouraged from all to share their views. The feedback received will ultimately shape the direction of the arts in the future.
“The discussion paper is an opportunity to think creatively about how we can best use current resources including: Collaboration and partnerships; Rethinking the way things are done; Increasing support from philanthropic and business communities; other roles the government can play – beyond funding – to support arts, culture and creative industries; and ensuring that the big areas government is investing in are looking at ways to invest in the arts,” said Vamvakinou. The feedback that is encouraged stems around the discussion paper’s four main goals:
1. To ensure that what and how the government supports reflects the diversity of a 21st century Australia, and protects and supports Indigenous culture.
2. To encourage the use of emerging technologies and new ideas that support the development of new artworks and the creative industries, and that enable more people to access and participate in arts and culture.
3. To support excellence and world-class endeavour, and strengthen the role that the arts play in telling Australian stories both here and overseas.
4. To increase and strengthen the capacity of the arts to contribute to our society and economy.
