2026–27 ACT Budget Delivers Major Boost for Canberra’s Arts and Creative Industries
The ACT Government has announced a major investment in Canberra’s arts and creative industries as part of the 2026–27 Budget, delivering on its election commitment to increase funding for arts organisations by 25 per cent.
The Budget includes a structural uplift in funding worth more than $8 million, aimed at supporting local artists, arts organisations, and creative businesses across the ACT.
The investment is designed to provide long-term certainty for Canberra’s creative sector, enabling organisations and artists to plan, invest, and develop new work while strengthening the city’s cultural identity and economic growth.
The funding package will also improve access to arts programs, activities, and events for the Canberra community, while supporting local employment and creative innovation.
As part of the announcement, the ACT Government confirmed ongoing support for the Kulture Break student dance program in ACT Government schools from 1 July 2026.
The Budget also includes a further round of funding for the Canberra Screen and Games Fund in 2027, following strong interest and success from the first funding round announced earlier this year. The initiative aims to strengthen Canberra’s growing screen production and digital gaming industries.
Government Leaders Welcome Investment
Andrew Barr, Chief Minister and Minister for Tourism and Trade, said the investment would strengthen Canberra’s appeal as a cultural destination.
“Canberra’s arts and creative industries are an important element in promoting our destination for visitors. This investment strengthens our cultural calendar, supports local talent, and enhances the experiences that attract people to live in, work in, and visit Canberra.”
Chris Steel said the creative sector plays a vital role in the ACT economy.
“By providing artists, organisations, and creative businesses with certainty and stability, we’re enabling them to innovate, collaborate, and reach new audiences.”
Michael Pettersson said the Budget delivers on promises made to the sector.
“This big uplift in funding is what artists asked for and what we promised at the election. This budget delivers.”
The 2026–27 ACT Budget investment is expected to strengthen Canberra’s position as one of Australia’s leading creative capitals while supporting sustainable growth across the arts, tourism, entertainment, and digital creative sectors.
