Northern Victoria, it’s time to share your ideas and insights that will shape the future of the state’s creative sector.
The Victorian Government has opened community consultations to gain ideas for the state’s new creative industries' strategy.
Member for Northern Victoria Jaclyn Symes said she encourages the community to contribute to the consultation process which is now open to all Victorians – whether you are a professional artist, a bookworm, a filmmaker, a music fan or would like to see more creativity in your area.
“Our creative community impacts our everyday lives in so many ways by entertaining us, enhancing education, promoting social cohesion, improving livability and wellbeing and boosting our economy and global reputation,” Ms Symes said.
“I encourage locals to share their ideas through this consultation process, ensuring the views of our community are reflected in the strategy and that we can all experience the benefits of Victoria’s creative and cultural life.”
Northern Victorian residents can complete an online survey about what creativity means to them and how the Government should prioritise investments and initiatives for the next three years, setting the stage for longer-term success.
A discussion paper summarising current issues and opportunities for the sector – from the rapid expansion of AI to cost of living pressures – is also available, and community members are invited to make a written submission to share ideas, solutions and feedback to feed into the strategy.
Spanning music, visual art, film, theatre, dance, literature, design, digital games, comedy, fashion, circus and much more, the creative industries are a big part of life in Victoria.
More than 97 per cent of Victorians engage with creative activities, whether that’s listening to music, reading books or attending performances, exhibitions or festivals.
The creative industries contribute $40.3 billion to the Victorian economy, the equivalent to 7.5 per cent of the total state economy
Almost one in 12 Victorian workers are estimated to be employed in the creative sector, which is 318,244 people or 8.6 per cent of the total Victorian workforce.
In addition to the online consultation, the Creative Victoria First Peoples Direction Circle is leading a parallel process to identify the best support for First Peoples creative industries.
The Creative State Strategy consultation process is open to all community members, from all parts of the state, until August 26.
To find out more or submit your ideas, visit engage.vic.gov.au/creative-state-consultation/