South Coast Arts says it has been blindsided by Shellharbour Council’s proposed decision to slash its funding, warning the move could have wider impacts on arts funding across the region.
A draft council budget outlines cuts of almost $50,000 a year, with Executive Director Louise Croker saying the organisation was given no prior warning or consultation.
“We didn’t have any prior discussions or a heads up from council that they were even considering the cut, that’s the part of the process we’re most disappointed by,” Ms Croker said.
She says the reduction would also affect South Coast Arts’ ability to secure state funding, with the loss of council support potentially costing an additional $92,000 in leveraged funding from Create NSW.
South Coast Arts is now seeking an urgent meeting with the mayor and is urging the community to speak up.
“We’ve had an overwhelming response from our community, and we’re encouraging everyone who supports the arts to make a submission to council,” Ms Croker said.
Council’s Draft Delivery Program can be found HERE – feedback’s open until May 26.
