$291 MILLION BOOST FOR NSW ARTS & CULTURE

Tuesday, 17 November 2020

The arts, screen and culture sectors are set for a boost with the 2020-21 NSW Budget committing $291 million into new initiatives designed to attract investment, support jobs and reactivate the State’s cultural venues.

Minister for the Arts Don Harwin said the funding would build upon the Government’s investment during the COVID-19 pandemic as it now turns its attention to setting the State up for a strong recovery.

“We know the deep impact COVID-19 has had on the arts, as well as the critical role the industries play in delivering significant economic and social benefits,” Mr Harwin said.

“Our Arts and Cultural Funding Program will continue to provide opportunities for organisations, artists and workers across a wide range of artforms.

“We are boosting our Made in NSW fund to a record $175 million over the next five years so we can continue to attract international productions and ensure we keep our competitive edge as a world-class destination for film and television.

“Since the fund was established in 2016 it has injected more $900 million into the State’s economy through local production and supported more than 26,000 jobs on international productions and local television drama series, and there is more to come.

“The NSW Government is also investing $104.5 million in an Arts Maintenance and Upgrade Fund to improve accessibility, sustainability and functionality of our arts and cultural venues, which is expected to support up to 1100 jobs and help to stimulate the economy.”

New investment in arts, screen and culture includes:

$175 million (over five years) for the Made in NSW fund;
More than $104 million for the Arts Maintenance and Upgrade Fund; and
More than $12 million for upgrades to the State Library of NSW.

This builds upon existing funding including:

$62 million for Arts & Cultural Funding program;
$50 million for Arts Rescue & Restart funding;
$148 million for Sydney Modern Project – Art Gallery of NSW;
$270 million for MAAS Powerhouse Precinct Parramatta; and
$129 million for Walsh Bay Arts Precinct.