Federal member for Calwell Maria Vamvakinou is pleased a ten week consultation period has begun to encourage individuals and communities to have their say about the future of arts and culture in Australia.

Ms Vamvakinou said the Arts Minister Simon Crean had recently released the country’s National Cultural Policy (the first in almost two decades) and was encouraging community feedback.
“Feedback needs to be based on four proposed goals,” Ms Vamvakinou said.
“These are namely ensuring the Government supports the diversity of a 21st century Australia; encouraging the use of emerging technologies and new ideas to support the development of creative industries; supporting  the role  the arts play in telling Australian stories and increasing the capacity of this sector.
Ms Vamvakinou said this was a unique opportunity for all concerned to help shape the direction of arts and culture in order to ensure it met with Australian aspirations.
“Consultation ends on October 21, and I would encourage you all to have a look at the discussion paper and  share your thoughts  with the  Government .”
A final policy is expected to be released in early 2012.

For details visit www.culture.arts.gov.au or look at the discussion paper at http://culture.arts.gov.au/discussion-paper.
Submissions can be made online, via email or by postal mail. Queries can be directed  to This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or call (02) 6210 2794.