The Nationals’ Member for Northern Victoria, Gaelle Broad, has welcomed the findings of a new parliamentary report that calls for increased and fairer funding for Victoria’s cultural and creative industries – with a stronger focus on regional areas.
The Legislative Council Economy and Infrastructure Committee tabled its report into the cultural and creative industries in Victoria following the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic. The report makes 11 recommendations and includes 55 key findings.
Ms Broad, who grew up in community theatre and worked at the ABC for several years, said it was a privilege to contribute to the inquiry and to hear directly from regional voices.
“It was wonderful to have groups like Bendigo Theatre Company, Arena Theatre and Leah Sertori present at the public hearings and share their insights,” Ms Broad said. “Their contributions highlighted just how vital arts and culture are to the identity, wellbeing and economy of our regional communities.”
The report recommends that government grant programs for cultural and creative industries be indexed to CPI to maintain their value over time, and that the administrative burden on smaller grants be significantly reduced.
“In real terms, we’ve seen a decline in funding due to a lack of indexation, despite the industry contributing more than $40 billion to the state economy and around 320,000 jobs,” Ms Broad said. “This includes thousands of creative workers in regional Victoria.”
Ms Broad also noted the devastating toll the COVID-19 lockdowns had on individuals in the creative sector.
“One story shared during the hearings was about a vibrant, outgoing young person who became isolated and disconnected during the lockdowns. That wasn’t an isolated case – we heard it again and again. Supporting the creative industries is also about supporting mental health, connection and community.”
Ms Broad also used the inquiry to highlight the importance of decentralisation and equitable support across the state.
You can access the committee inquiry report here: Cultural and creative industries in Victoria
Media Contact: Bart Turgoose – bart.turgoose@parliament.vic.gov.au – 0438 924 258
