Study highlights strong Western Australian support for the arts

An independent survey of how West Australians view the arts shows strong and ongoing public support for the value of culture and arts activities in the state.

The latest annual Arts Monitor showed 47% of West Australians had attended arts and cultural activities at least once in the month prior to the survey while, in the three months prior to the survey, 69% attended arts and cultural activities.

Attendance over a 12 month period declined slightly at 80% (82% in 2015), and was higher for females (85%) than males (75%). The rate of attendance was also higher for respondents aged 18 to 39 years (84%), than those aged 40-59 years (80%), or over 60 (73%). On average, respondents in the Perth metropolitan area reported higher attendance levels (83%) over a twelve month period than respondents in the regional areas (72%).

The latest annual Arts Monitor survey focused on attendance levels for arts and cultural activities, public support and attitudes, and the role of culture and the arts in Western Australian communities.

Commenting on the findings, Western Australian Culture and the Arts Minister John Day explained "the State-wide survey found 95% of respondents supported the role of arts in the school curriculum, while 81% supported government investment in the arts," Mr Day said.

"In addition, 75% agreed that the arts have a positive impact on individual wellbeing, with 60% and 62% respectively agreeing that arts and culture play a valuable role in contributing to the State's identity and sense of community.

"Event attendance trends in recent years reflect a consistently strong support for the sector that goes beyond the impact of major events such as The Giants in 2015."

Arts Monitor 2016 was commissioned through the Western Australian Department of Culture and the Arts (DCA), with the results providing data and trend indicators that will inform the work of the State Government, DCA and key agencies such as Lotterywest, Tourism Western Australia, and the departments of Education and Health.

Minister Day added “it is a valuable source of information for WA arts organisations and peak industry groups.

"The figures and trends will also assist the Government to support and plan for a sustainable culture and arts sector across the State."

For full Arts Monitor 2016 results go to www.dca.wa.gov.au/research-hub

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