Arts Hub, Richard Watts
26 January 2025

The 2025-26 Federal Budget, delivered yesterday (25 March) by the Treasurer, Dr Jim Chalmers, contains little in the way of new support for the Australian arts sector.

Theatre Network Australia (TNA), the national peak body for the performing arts sector, responded to the lack of new arts investment in the Federal Budget by saying, “TNA is disappointed that the 2025–26 Federal Budget did not include more substantial investment in the arts, especially in response to critical issues the sector is dealing with.

“TNA continues to emphasise the need for measures to support independent artists, small-to-medium arts organisations, and access to the arts and culture. Specifically we are calling for much-needed investment to create fair pay and sustainable careers, strengthen regional touring and development, and improve children and young people’s access to the arts,” the statement continued, referencing the key platforms of TNA’s advocacy in the lead-up to the 2025 Federal Election.

“While we welcome the $8.6 million for Revive Live, which supports live music venues and touring artists, we believe the lack of additional funding for other critical initiatives is a missed opportunity to address the ongoing challenges faced by the sector. These include workforce shortages, financial instability for arts workers and the need for more accessible arts experiences for communities across the country,” TNA’s statement concluded.

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