Nightlife vs the arts: Report finds NSW cultural priorities are ‘out of balance’
A parliamentary inquiry has found that NSW's cultural priorities are 'out of balance,' with significant investment in the state's nightlife economy coming at the expense of its arts and cultural sectors. The report highlights the impending closure of the Australian Design Centre and criticizes the government for lack of transparency and disproportionate funding allocation. While the 24-hour economy office has expanded rapidly, Create NSW has undergone major staff cuts despite managing substantial funding. The inquiry calls for urgent action to restore funding and support for the arts to ensure sector sustainability.
- ▪The parliamentary report states that efforts to revive Sydney’s nightlife have directly undermined funding and support for the arts and culture sectors.
- ▪The Australian Design Centre in Darlinghurst is set to close on June 30 due to funding losses at both federal and state levels.
- ▪The Office of the 24-Hour Economy Commissioner grew from 12 to 64 full-time staff in four years, while Create NSW cut over 25% of its workforce.
- ▪The inquiry criticized the lack of transparency in budget allocations and the disproportionate leadership structure favoring nightlife over broader arts support.
- ▪The committee recommended immediate restoration of baseline funding to the Australian Design Centre to preserve craft and design expertise.
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