In Estimates yesterday it was revealed that Kemp did not even bother to formally respond to written requests from the sector to provide additional recurrent funding of $5 million to the Dance Board to support community based dance organisations.
This is despite receiving desperate pleas and a formal letter from over 40 company and festival directors seeking additional $5 million in this year’s budget to prevent “further haemorrhage by the sector”.
The situation is ludicrous. Grassroots arts organisations and community arts communities are the long suffering victims of the Howard Government’s under-funding and receive no additional money.
In contrast organisations and their heavy weight political connections secure large grants without the Minister batting an eyelid.
Contact: Adina Cirson – (02) 6277 3334 or 0418 488 295
