Cultural Compact & World Centre for Indigenous Culture

In 2008 the Committee for Perth released the Cultural Compact report, which made recommendations how arts and culture can become part of the daily lives of West Australians. The compact invites the arts and culture sector, the government, businesses and philanthropists to work together to revitalise Greater Perth’s vibrancy and cultural offerings.

Recommendations

• It is proposed that an Independent Commissioner for Culture and the Arts be appointed.
• It is proposed that a WA Creative Investment Fund be established to stimulate the fusion of government and private sector funding resources to ensure the strategic application of available funds for creative places and spaces and the thriving of bold arts and cultural development, developed through a matching of public and private contributions with a goal of $100 million. The capital would be invested for a 10-year period and the interest expended on major projects with strategic intent.
• It is proposed that WA make its acknowledgement and respect of its Aboriginal culture and heritage visible at all times across the State.
• It is proposed that a World Centre for Indigenous Culture be developed on a central, prime site on the Swan River in Perth.
• It is proposed that the potential for the use of the Perth Convention and Exhibition Centre (PCEC) roof as a showcase for Indigenous art be explored.
• It is proposed that Western Australia be developed and marketed as an incubator for the arts, culture and creativity.
• It is proposed that the arts and culture sector explore new and bold ways of working.
• It is proposed that the State Government and Local Government Authorities take a significant leadership role to develop an overarching cultural policy for metropolitan Perth.
• It is proposed that the State Government and Local Government Authorities work together to identify and develop areas for action in linking places and spaces.
• It is proposed that all open space projects include a requirement to develop a closer relationship with the environment.
• It is proposed that all education providers develop a focus on the arts, culture and creativity.
• It is proposed that the arts and culture sector seek ways to engage actively with communities and that funding bodies support this work.
• It is proposed that arts and cultural organisations and Local Government Authorities actively engage with diverse cultures and seek ways to make these cultures more visible in public spaces.
• It is proposed that arts organisations seek active partnerships with heritage bodies and that Local Government Authorities recognise the importance of this area through funding and increased in-kind support.
• It is proposed that there be a new focus on the inclusion of marginalised young people through arts and culture activities.