Media Release:

Queens Park Theatre set to cost ratepayers less under The Nationals Arts Policy.

The Nationals WA candidate for Geraldton, Shane Van Styn, has welcomed the launch of a Regional Arts discussion paper from The Nationals WA today, aimed at providing recurrent funding towards key regional arts centres.

Shane Van Styn said The Nationals WA will boost funding by up to $16 million over four years to support regional entertainment centres, cultural centres, arts groups and individual projects, should the party retain the balance of power, following the State election in March.

“The Queens Park Theatre will be a key beneficiary of the policy. The QPT relies on ratepayer subsidies to operate, so this new recurrent funding will be a welcome new source of revenue to support the arts in Geraldton” Mr Van Styn said.

“The Nationals will seek to provide recurrent operational funding towards supporting regional entertainment and arts centres, in line with the support the State Government currently offers to arts and entertainment centres in the metropolitan area, such as the Perth Concert Hall,” Mr Van Styn said.

The discussion paper also calls for a boost in funding to grassroots regional arts and culture organisations, through organisations such as Country Arts WA.

“The arts play an important role in regional communities, contributing greatly to the sustainability of many towns. As well as offering a cultural and entertainment outlet, a vibrant arts scene provides social opportunities, enhanced tourism, and creates opportunities to learn and develop skills,” Mr Van Styn said.

“This announcement recognises that the strength of communities isn’t just measured in hard infrastructure.”

Shane Van Styn said The Nationals WA will seek input from local arts groups, the public and Local Governments on this discussion paper to help stimulate a transformation in overall arts funding in regional WA.

The Regional Arts Discussion Paper can be viewed online at www.nationalswa.com.