No. 20

UPGRADES FOR VALUED LOCAL ARTS FACILITIES

A number of much-loved and well-used arts facilities will benefit from upgrades in the 2007-08 Budget.

“Government arts facilities play a central role in arts development and community participation,” Arts Minister Jon Stanhope said today. “As well as making a significant investment in developing new arts facilities, the ACT Government continues to provide ongoing and one-off funding for facilities upgrades and maintenance. 

“In 2007-08 the Government has allocated additional one-off funding of $400,000 to address significant repairs and maintenance projects, and funding of  $323,000 for capital upgrades.” 

Among a significant program of works planned for 2007-08, highlights include condition audits for all facilities, two new multi-purpose studios for Strathnairn Arts Centre, a theatre lighting upgrade for Belconnen Theatre, floor resurfacing and new signage for Tuggeranong Arts Centre, a revamped pedestrian walkway, electrical wiring and signage for Manuka Arts Centre and painting works at Gorman House, Ainslie Arts Centre and Manuka.

“These works demonstrate the ACT Government's continued commitment to the upkeep and development of Canberra's valued community arts facilities and to progressing The Canberra Plan's vision of a city that represents, '...the best in Australian creativity, community living and sustainable development',” he said.

These Budget allocations follow through on the Government's commitment to supporting local arts activity and infrastructure, which is outlined in its Arts Action Statement, Arts Canberra, and Arts Facilities Strategy.