Push for continued arts funding begins

Country Arts WA has launched a campaign to secure arts funding in the lead-up to the State Election.

The Vote Arts Campaign is seeking to rally regional West Australians to lobby their local MPs and major party candidates for a commitment to continue funding of $24 million for regional art projects.

The campaign also aims to highlight the significant contribution arts projects and initiatives have made to regional Western Australia in terms of community development and interaction, as well as jobs and tourism.

Country Arts WA chief executive Paul MacPhail said in only 18 months, funding injected into WA regions through the Royalties for Regions Creative Regions Program had delivered tangible social and economic returns.

“Arts and culture activities, particularly shows and performances, help bring communities together and evoke creativity, interaction and connection between people,” he said.

The campaign will run until the State election on March 11.