$73 million for "the Arts" in WA

It is a really valuable injection into many areas that rarely see decent funding, such as the Art Gallery and the Library, and as stated above, all overdue. Details are coming, but I was at the announcement this morning and there seems to be lots going in lots of directions. (and there was mention of theatre, but no details): Public art writing awards (the biggest prize pool in Australia) visual art awards (indigenous focus too) (the biggest prize in Australia) encouragement for philanthropic spending money for big productions put on by WA co's, i.e. to enable them to actually do what they want with their shows... money to enable both the opera and ballet to do more shows. funding for regional venues etc. refit of both concert hall and his maj's money for venue enhancement both metro and regional (which I think may be able to be accessed for community theatre) big injection into local contemporary dance (very overdue) public arts projects throughout Perth city. much more funding to the local tv/film production industry. a big injection into the state library to bring in into the 21st century (finally) and the gallery's ten million will be added to. They are expecting corporates to go dollar for dollar. i.e. actually 20 million to the gallery. if the corps do, the govt will sink another 5 million, with the expectation of another corporate 5. in other words, going from their current $250,000 p/a to acquire artworks to potentially 30 million in the next 3 years. This is a SERIOUS undertaking! and this is what I can remember. I'm sure there was more. It was just so overwhelming! Frankly, I think this is the single most exciting announcement from a govt about the arts in my lifetime. Whilst again I think too much focus for $'s goes to the big 4, there are plenty and varied places, and many of them have been neglected for too long. WA yet again demonstrates itself to be a national leader in arts funding and initiatives, and here's hoping it brings the cultural revolution we all hope for. I can't wait for the detail though...let's see who is going to see the money! I was listening to the radio though, and people are already out there complaining about this announcement. Comments ranging from- where is the money for the RSPCA (????!!!!) to "yet again more money goes to the toffs". I don't know about anyone else, but I certainly am not becoming a millionaire in this arts game...! Anyways, this is important people. Find out what you can, and exploit it. There is a once in a lifetime opportunity to plant the arts square in the consciousness of Western Australians. It's now up to us. Nev It's the simple things stupid...