Consultation has reopened on Australia’s National Cultural Policy and for communities like the Hawkesbury, this is about far more than the arts. It goes to the heart of economic growth, local identity, and the future of regional life.
The Federal Government is once again calling for public input to shape the next phase of its national cultural framework, building on the 2023 policy Revive: a place for every story, a story for every place.
At its core, Revive was built on a simple idea: that every community has stories worth telling. The next phase will determine how those stories are supported, funded, and shared into the future.
For the Hawkesbury, the message is clear this is not just a consultation for the arts sector. It is an opportunity to help shape how the region grows, connects, and presents itself in the years ahead.
Submissions are now open, with community members encouraged to have their say.
Minister for the Arts Tony Burke said the consultation was an important step in shaping the future of Australian storytelling.
“We believe Australians should be able to watch our shows on screen and stage, hear our music through their speakers, see Australian art on the walls and read our stories on the bookshelves,” he said.
“Now, we’re calling on Australia’s cultural sector to tell us how we can continue to build on the successes of Revive.”
Special Envoy for the Arts Susan Templeman said the consultation would ensure the policy continues to reflect the sector’s priorities.
“The upcoming consultation process will ensure that our cultural policy continues to reflect the arts community’s ambitions and help realise its potential,” she said.
Culture as infrastructure, not an add-on in Hawkesbury
Across the region, cultural activity already plays a quiet but powerful role.
From local events and markets to sporting clubs, tourism operators, and small businesses, culture is embedded in the local economy. It shapes how the Hawkesbury presents itself to visitors, supports jobs, and strengthens community connection.
Yet national policy has often treated culture as a secondary concern something separate from infrastructure, investment, and planning.
This consultation signals a shift. There is growing recognition that culture underpins:
- Tourism and visitor spending
- Small business resilience
- Community wellbeing and identity
- Population retention and workforce attraction
Regional realities must be reflected
The Hawkesbury sits at the intersection of opportunity and challenge. It is a region rich in natural assets and community spirit, yet facing limited access to services, workforce pressures, gaps in childcare and health infrastructure and increasing demand from population growth.
In this context, culture is not separate from these issues, it is part of the solution.
"A strong cultural sector contributes to making regions more attractive to families and skilled workers, supporting mental health and community resilience and driving local economies through events, tourism, and creative enterprise." says Fiona Germaine of Bells Line Road Business Council.
A policy moment worth engaging in
The consultation invites input from individuals, organisations, and communities across the country.
Key areas of focus include the sustainability of creative industries, the impact of digital platforms and artificial intelligence, fair conditions for artists and cultural workers, access and participation, particularly in regional areas.
For the Hawkesbury, it presents a critical opportunity to ensure national policy reflects the realities of regional life not just metropolitan perspectives.
Submissions are open until May 24 at 11.59pm (AEDT) https://www.arts.gov.au/news/have-your-say-australias-next-national-cultural-policy
