Australian arts programs showcased globally

Recent funding of almost $300,000 from the Federal Government is allowing seven diverse Australian arts programs to showcase their talent on the world stage.

The funding is being delivered through the International Cultural Diplomacy Arts Fund, which supports Australia’s global cultural engagement to increase access to international audiences.

Among the recipients are the Gondwana Indigenous Children’s Choir, Marliya, who performed their acclaimed work Spinifex Gum at London’s Barbican Centre in October 2024. 

Also receiving funding are:

• Gumbaynggirr Giingana Freedom School and Batchelor Institute of Indigenous Tertiary Education - to compile and translate case studies on best practices as part of UNESCO’s International Decade of Indigenous Languages 2022-2032.

• Interactive Games and Entertainment Association – to support a digital games showcase at the Australian Pavilion at Expo 2025 Osaka.

• Australian Dance Theatre – to support the development of a new major dance work, Two Blood.

• Adelaide Festival Centre – to support presentations of Por Por’s Big Fat Surprise Wedding and Taylor Sheesh: The Errors Tour OzAsia Festival in October 2024.

• Poetry in Action – to support attendance at the Asia Pacific International Schools Conference Teaching & Learning Expo and performances in Hong Kong in December 2024.

Minister for the Arts, Tony Burke, said the recipients were representative of the range of Australian talent and noted “we’re supporting these unique and truly incredible Australian artists and programs to share their work on a global stage.

“Engaging international audiences not only creates a cultural dialogue, but it strengthens bonds and builds appreciation for the amazing talent Australia has to offer.”

Image. Credit: Australian Dance Theatre