The Federal Government has announced a $27 million support package for the arts during the COVID-19 pandemic, which has shut down gatherings and arts events across the country. The Government will provide $10 million to help regional artists and organisations develop new work and explore new delivery models, through Regional Arts Australia’s Regional Arts Fund, $7 million in additional funding to support Indigenous artists and arts centres through the Indigenous Visual Arts Industry Support program, and $10 million for the arts industry charity Support Act.

“Indigenous art centres and fairs are often major drawcards for tourism and local economies, and without this activity many communities have been severely affected. Artists and regional arts organisations are feeling this pain too and we know that this additional relief is needed. The funding available through the Indigenous Visual Arts Industry Support program and Regional Arts Fund will help support artists and creative and cultural activity over the coming months,” Minister for Communications, Cyber Safety and the Arts Paul Fletcher said. “Our live performance industry has also felt the impact of closures and cancelled performances. The charity Support Act will receive funding to immediately bolster its...