Investment in a thriving arts, culture and creative sector is an investment in the State’s future. Country Arts WA, the state’s peak regional arts body, has been working closely with the State Government over the last 24 months to ensure the regions are not forgotten in this week’s State Budget.

In Kalgoorlie-Boulder yesterday, Culture and the Arts Minister David Templeman unveiled the Regional Arts and Culture Investment Program highlighting an investment of $18.94 million into arts and culture over the next four years.

This strong commitment to regional communities is critical in strengthening the creation of more jobs, increase opportunities for Aboriginal artists, activate regional performing arts venues, and grow arts and cultural activities.

Sue Middleton, Chair of Country Arts WA, says this investment will play a key role in making regional communities liveable, dynamic and diverse places to live.

“We applaud the State Government’s commitment to regional arts and culture. The investment into regional WA’s economy will grow creative and connected communities, in turn create long lasting social impacts in developing regional liveability.

“As a key delivery partner of the previous regional arts and culture program we are keen to receive more detail about the package to ensure as much funding as possible is available to regional artists and organisations.

“We look forward to working with delivery partners CircuitWest and the Department of Local Government, Sport and Cultural Industries to build capacity and create more opportunities for a strong, thriving regional arts sector.” Ms Middleton said.