In the 2019-2020 NSW Budget handed down yesterday, a 22 per cent increase in recurrent funding was announced.

Minister for the Arts Don Harwin said following four years of unprecedented investment in cultural endeavours across NSW, the Government is reaffirming its commitment to the sector.

“The NSW Government is creating an arts, screen and culture landscape that is the envy of the nation. These industries play a pivotal role in delivering significant economic and social benefits to our State,” Mr Harwin said.

This year the Government is increasing overall Arts and Cultural Development Program (ACDP) funding to $61 million, including funding for the National Art School.

The Australian Museum will receive $40 million to continue the delivery of a new touring exhibition hall for the King Tutankhamun exhibition in 2021, as well as education and visitor facilities.

The Made in NSW fund has been increased to $15 million this year and $55 million over the next four years to attract productions to our State, to drive screen investment from domestic and international producers. The fund’s $43 million investment to date has already delivered an estimated $700 million to the NSW economy.

Investment in arts, screen and culture in 2019-20 will include:

Arts and Cultural Development Program (ACDP) in 2019/20, inclusive of National Art School funding: $61 million
Made in NSW fund: $15 million in 2019/20 and $55 million over the next four years
Australian Museum operational budget: an increase of $9.7 million in 2019-20 and $39 million over the next four years

Ongoing funding for 2019-20 capital projects includes:

Sydney Modern Project – Art Gallery of NSW: $103.4 million
MAAS Powerhouse Precinct Parramatta: $167.2 million
Walsh Bay Arts Precinct: $113.5 million
Sydney Opera House Renewal Program and security measures: $76.6 million
Australian Museum: $40 million