The Territory Labor Government continues to invest in the Territory’s arts and cultural sector with 23 leading arts organisations and venues to share in $21 million over the next five years.
The new five-year funding agreements deliver on an election commitment to provide more certainty for leading arts organisations allowing them to better plan, develop and showcase NT artists and deliver memorable experiences for Territorians and visitors.
Two strategic arts venues and 21 arts organisations have received the funding including the Arnhem Northern Kimberley Artists, Barkly Regional Arts, Katherine Regional Arts and Red Hot Arts Central Australia. The NT Dance Company, led by Larrakia artist Gary Lang, has received five-year funding as a new entrant to the leading arts organisation category.
The funding will support career development and employment opportunities for artists and professional arts workers and the delivery of high quality arts programs and services for the community.
As noted by Acting Minister for Tourism, Sport and Culture, Eva Lawler:
“The Territory Labor Government is investing $21 million over the next five years to develop and showcase the artistic talent of the Territory, grow the arts and creative industries, create new jobs and enrich the lifestyle of Territorians through arts and cultural activities.
“We know that the creative industries are a strong contributor to the NT economy, employing thousands of people. This investment means job security for Territorians and more jobs for our creative sector.
“The move to five-year funding agreements is important for the viability of the Territory’s arts and cultural sector. It provides greater security and the ability to plan for our leading arts organisations to develop and present high quality arts programs that maximise public value and create more memorable experiences for Territorians and visitors.
“In 2018, leading arts organisations and venues engaged more than 2,700 artists to deliver arts programs, exhibitions and performances to audiences of over 230,000 people.
“Arts organisations generated 66 per cent ($16 million) of their income from their own activities, box office, corporate and philanthropic support and more than 12,345 people participated in their annual programs.”
As noted by NT Dance Company, General Manager, Erica McCallum:
“Having secure funding for the next five years will allow the NT Dance Company to continue to develop and showcase our amazing Territory talent to locals, visitors and reach people on the national stage.”
