Fourteen not-for-profit arts and creative organisations across Western Australia have received a combined $358,000 in State Government funding to improve facilities and equipment, helping them continue their work in communities.
The funding, part of a Cook Government election commitment, has gone towards upgrades ranging from theatre lighting and seating to musical instruments, pottery equipment and studio refits. Officials say the aim is to provide smaller organisations with the resources they need to support their activities and audiences.
Among the recipients, community broadcaster RTRFM has been awarded $75,000 to help refit its Mount Lawley studios and replace two transmitters. The Old Mill Theatre, one of South Perth’s most historic venues, has also received $75,000 for new seating and carpet. Roleystone Theatre and Rockingham Theatre Company will each benefit from $40,000, which will fund a projector and upgraded lighting to support their busy performance schedules.
Other organisations receiving support include the Armadale Society of Artists, Belmont Potters, Kalamunda Dramatic Society, Limelight Theatre, Garrick Theatre, South of the River Potters’ Club, South Perth Arts and Crafts Society, We Are Yokine, Women of World Stage music group, and Zig Zag Community Arts. Grants range from $5,000 to $30,000 depending on the needs of each group, with projects covering storage, AV equipment, and performance space improvements.
Creative Industries Minister Simone McGurk said the funding would help ensure organisations of all sizes can continue to play a role in Western Australia’s cultural life. She added that the support forms part of a broader $22.7 million commitment to the creative industries.
The government says the investment is aimed at strengthening WA’s creative economy at both grassroots and professional levels, ensuring community groups have the tools to maintain and expand their activities.
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