Arts sector to benefit from $3.3 million in funding

ACT Minister for the Arts Joy Burch today announced the recipients of $3.3 million in long-term funding for major arts organisations in Canberra.

"This significant investment from the ACT Arts Fund will allow some key arts organisations in Canberra to keep producing work that inspires and engages the community," Ms Burch said.

"Importantly, with some of the funding agreements lasting up to five years this money gives organisations the stability to plan for the long term and use that to attract more funding."

The funding, part of the Key Arts Organisation program, supports organisations that provide critical arts infrastructure in the ACT through high quality programs, services and facilities.

Three organisations were awarded five-year funding packages commencing in 2012 through the program: the Canberra Youth Theatre, $220,000 a year, Craft ACT Inc, $184,500 annually; and Canberra Contemporary Art Space Inc, $170,000 a year.

Three further organisations secured two-year funding deals for 2012-2013: Canberra City Band Inc, $21,000 a year; M16 Artspace, $98,400 a year; and Strathnairn Arts Association Inc, $35,880 a year.

In addition the Australia Business Arts Foundation ACT Office was awarded $38,000 each year for 2012-2013 and ScreenACT will receive $65,500 in 2012.

"Canberra's artistic life is underpinned by a many vibrant arts organisations which provide valuable activities and opportunities for all. This funding will allow them to continue this work and come up with new ways to promote arts in the ACT."

For further information on the ACT Arts Fund, contact artsACT on 6207 2384 or visit http://www.arts.act.gov.au/