Audiences and creatives in regional NSW will benefit from increased employment opportunities and exciting community initiatives as Regional Arts Development Organisations receive a funding boost from the NSW Government.
The NSW Government, through Create NSW, will invest over $3.4 million in the Regional Arts Network in 2021/22 that includes $200,000 per annum to each Regional Arts Development Organisation (RADO) across the state, which is an increase from $168,000 in core operational funds in 2020/21.
Minister for the Arts Don Harwin said the increased investment would help to stimulate employment and increase access to arts and culture for audiences in regional NSW.
“We know that regional communities do well when they run their own show, and I am delighted the NSW Government is delivering an additional $32,000 per annum in core funding to each member of the Regional Arts Network,” Mr Harwin said.
“This much-needed funding boost for our Regional Arts Development Organisations will enable more employment opportunities on the ground for artists and practitioners as well as the delivery of exciting arts and cultural experiences for regional audiences.”
“The RADOs play a critical role in developing arts and cultural talent in NSW communities, through locally driven arts events and festivals, partnerships with local government, businesses and organisations and individual support for creatives. This funding uplift from the NSW Government is proof that we are serious about investing in our local talent.”
In addition to the funding uplift, a Regional Arts Development Organisation is set to be established for the South Coast, covering Shoalhaven City, Shellharbour City and Kiama Municipal Council areas. The new RADO will join the established Regional Art Network of 14 RADOs across regional NSW.
The Regional Arts Network has been developed over the past 30 years with core funding from the NSW Government and through local Council support, to assist RADOs to inform and promote arts and cultural activity within the local community including opportunities for creative professionals in the regions.