Arts and culture are fundamental to Hobart’s identity. They contribute to the personality of our city, bring people together, support employment, attract visitors and give emerging artists, musicians, filmmakers, writers and performers opportunities to develop their craft. I have seen the importance of this firsthand.

​

The restoration and revival of the State Cinema demonstrated how culture, heritage and business can reinforce each other. Over more than two decades, the cinema became much more than a place to watch films. It became an important part of North Hobart and a platform for Tasmania’s film and creative communities. Hospitality venues can play a similar role.

​

Pubs, hotels, theatres and other venues provide stages for musicians and performers while creating jobs and giving young people their first experience in hospitality and entertainment. Council should recognise the economic and social importance of this ecosystem.

​

Arts organisations and events frequently operate on tight budgets and face substantial regulatory and financial pressures. Council cannot fund everything, but it can provide appropriate facilities, make its processes easier to navigate and ensure unnecessary barriers do not prevent good ideas from proceeding.

​

There is also scope to use Council’s existing assets more imaginatively. City Hall and the wider civic precinct could accommodate substantially more cultural and community activity. Spaces should be active beyond normal office hours wherever practical, particularly during evenings, weekends and public holidays when people are looking for things to do.

​

A vibrant arts sector also contributes directly to Hobart’s economy. Restaurants, hotels, retailers and other businesses benefit when people come into the city for performances, exhibitions and events. A strong cultural city is not created by government alone.

​

Council’s role should be to provide the environment, facilities and opportunities that allow creativity to flourish