About
Regional arts have the power to change lives. They make our regional communities better places to live, contribute to economic growth and give people a sense of belonging.
Established in 1994, Regional Arts WA is the state’s only multi-arts organisation with a purely regional focus.
We are an independent, membership-based, not-for-profit organisation and are highly regarded within WA and nationally as an innovative, high value leader in the arts and in regional and community development. We represent the regional arts sector, this means every artist, arts worker, arts and cultural organisation, and organisation or group which has regional programs in WA.
Regional Arts WA understands that each region has its diverse communities, imperatives, cultural requirements and challenges. We honour these distinctive communities by coordinating a series of investment, advisory, partnership and presenting offerings which are flexible, innovative and relevant.
Our service delivery is diverse with a suite of programs including funding for arts projects large and small, development support for key regional arts organisations and artists, opportunities for the state peak organisations to develop regional programs, youth and First Nations’ specific projects, and an extensive professional performing arts touring program.
Recognised as a lead organisation of the arts, Regional Arts WA is the peak Western Australian body for regional arts and culture, and a member of Regional Arts Australia – a national network with deductible gift recipient (DGR) status.
Our Purpose
To celebrate and strengthen a powerful regional arts sector
Our Vision
Connected and creative regional communities making Western Australia a better place to live
Our Values
- Trusted: We are approachable, listen with respect and respond reliably and honestly. We strive for continuous improvement and accountability.
- Brave: We expect change and are a catalyst for positive adventure. We challenge disadvantage to make courageous, regions-first choices.
- Curious: We question everything we do for relevance, actively seeking diversity and innovation. We value unique experiences.
- Involved: Relationships are fundamental. We are open with information, consult where possible, pursue partnerships and collaborate when relevant.
Our 5 Year Strategic Plan (2019-2023)
Through feedback collected from major surveys and key stakeholders, including representatives from the regional arts sector and communities, we have created our new strategic plan for the next 5 years which will build upon the strong foundations of regional WA culture. The five key strategies in the plan are:
- Champion diversity and inclusiveness
- Stimulate activity and investment across a broad range of arts practice, practitioners and participants
- Advance understanding and application of the value of regional arts
- Build existing strengths in skills and wellbeing
- Coordinate a multitude of networks and relationships
By 2023, we will achieve the following long-term goals (outcomes):
- Regional communities cherish regional creativity
- We support inclusivity in regional communities – where a diversity of voices, artforms and arts practitioners are valued.
- We advocate for active local ownership over the development and stimulation of regional arts and cultural policy and programs.
- Regional arts are in demand
- We support regional arts practitioners in the creation of vibrant, inspiring art.
- We advocate for increased exposure and recognition of locally relevant, globally aspirational regional events and activities.
- First Nations arts and cultures are embedded in our lives
- We support First Nations arts practitioners and communities to celebrate and connect all Western Australians with First Nations arts and culture.
- We advocate for the importance of First Nations peoples’ self-determination, cultural authority and leadership and champion the Uluru Statement From the Heart.
- A thriving regional arts sector
- We support connected, well-governed and sustainable regional arts organisations contributing to a healthy arts ecology.
- We advocate for the ongoing journey of young regional arts practitioners/leaders as the future of our sector.
