Have your say on National Cultural Policy

Member for Robertson, Gordon Reid, and State Member for Gosford, Liesl Tesch, talk to Henry Kendall High School students about Indigenous history and culture

Member for Robertson, Gordon Reid, is calling on Central Coast residents to have their say on the future of the arts and culture in Australia.

The Federal Government is developing a National Cultural Policy and is encouraging people from every state and territory in Australia to make a submission to help bring drive and vision back to the industry.

The new National Cultural Policy, to be delivered by the end of this year, will be shaped around five pillars: First Nations, A place for every story; The Centrality of the artist; Strong institutions; and Reaching the audience.

‘First Nations’ will recognise and respect the crucial place of these stories at the centre of the country’s arts and culture, while ‘A place for every story’ will reflect the diversity of stories and contributions of all Australians as the creators of culture.

The ‘Centrality of the artist’ will support artists and celebrate their role as the creators of culture and ‘Strong institutions’ will provide support across the spectrum of institutions which sustain arts and culture.

‘Reaching the audience’ will ensure Australian stories reach the right people at home and abroad.

Fifteen acclaimed writers, musicians, painters, producers, directors and industry professionals will be part of five expert review panels which will help shape the National Cultural Policy in the months ahead.

They will identify the key issues and themes raised through the public consultation process and help craft a comprehensive roadmap for Australia’s arts and culture sectors for the decades ahead.

Special Envoy for the Arts, Susan Templeman, said the Labor Party has a proud history of support for the arts.

“Both the Keating and Gillard Governments developed cultural policies – which were then torn up by subsequent Liberal and National governments and replaced by nothing,” she said.

“The arts, entertainment and cultural sector is important to who we are as Australians and plans a vital role in the economy.

“A National Cultural Policy is the foundation for a better future for Australian artists.”

Reid said the National Cultural Policy should draw on as many voices as possible and encouraged people from Robertson to have their say.

Submissions to the National Cultural Policy can be made until August 22.

For more information, visit: https://www.arts.gov.au/have-your-say/new-national-cultural-policy.

Source:
Media release, Aug 16
Member for Robertson, Gordon Reid