Arts bites: Queensland parties target arts sector at this weekend’s election

In the run-up to the Queensland elections this Saturday, the parties are making a pitch to the arts sector, which of course also includes the contemporary music scene. 

Unfortunately the state’s live music industry’s major concern – the ID scanners and lockouts – have not been addressed by any of the major parties.

However, this is what is on offer.

LABOR

* A Ministry for the Arts will be maintained to promote Queensland arts and music, encourage participation through funding and support the creation of new works.

* Promotion of the creation of national and international interest in Queensland arts and culture and promote the growth of cultural tourism.

* Examination of affordable public liability insurance for arts workers and events.

* Programs to extend the careers of musicians and artists, and encourage collaborations with other industries.

* Actively train Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples for employment in the arts industries.

* “Realistically resource” Arts Queensland administration

and support offices to be self-sufficient and autonomous. , and expand its services especially in the regional areas.

* Maintain consultative committees of representatives from all arts sectors (including contemporary music) to provide advice.

* Support the Regional Arts Development Fund and strengthen the touring program to these communities through ArTour.

* Upgrade state-owned arts and cultural facilities through its $17.5 million Arts Infrastructure Investment Fund.

* Work with the Australia Council to discover why Federal Government arts investment in Queensland is much less than in NSW and Victoria.

LIBERAL NATIONAL PARTY

As reported in TMN recently, the LNP promises additional $9 million for arts in addition to what’s already promised in the state budget in June of an extra $43.1 million over four years by current Premier and Minister for the Arts, Annastacia Palaszczuk.

The LNP’s $9 million includes $1.5 million for community-based artists and arts workers, a $4 million Regional Arts Infrastructure Fund, and a $1 million fund to activate ‘forgotten spaces. 

* A greater tie-in for the arts sector with the tourism industry at an event called ArtsQ, based on the existing partnership between the Queensland Government and tourism industry’s DestinationQ. 

* An Arts Without Boundaries policy to break down barriers to participation by disabled artists and consumers as well as a $1.5 million Arts Education Fund, focused on providing opportunities for young artists in regional communities.

* $700,000 to trial a season of the popup venue Global Theatre which first trialled in Melbourne 

*Arts Minister Tim Nicholls said, “I will deliver a new plan for the arts in Queensland that improves pathways for the next generation of artists and content creators, boosts vital infrastructure and make arts more accessible across the state.”

GREENS

* Protect and encourage live entertainment in venues by: reducing administrative burden and cost, discourage reliance on gambling as a revenue source, ensure adequate transport and public safety measures in place, and ensure all legislation covering the arts be “framed to maximise opportunities for artistic endeavour, employment, innovation and promotion.” 

* Provide/work towards a substantial increase in funding for the arts in Queensland to support established arts companies and programs; new and emerging artists; programs for disadvantaged and vulnerable groups e.g., people with disability, migrants, prisoners, and juvenile justice detainees; and programs that promote health and well-being, including in the aged, mental health and disability sectors; and a programs for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people

* Encourage government bodies to support the arts by using, wherever possible, the services of Queenslanders in developing and producing education, consultation and promotional material. 

* Enhance public buildings and spaces by the use of concerts and other kinds of live performances as well as sculpture and painting.