Changing organisations to diversify arts audiences

“This research is about the future we are all striving to achieve where the clearly apparent cultural diversity of our nation is represented through the inclusive and cosmopolitan nature of our arts.”

– Wesley Enoch AM, Indigenous playwright and theatre director, Chair Industry Advisory Group

Attracting diverse audiences is a critical issue for the sustainability of the arts and cultural sectors. While most arts organisations (and policy and funding agencies) believe that diversifying audiences is a priority, change is slow and some parts of the arts sector appear to have trouble attracting audiences from a range of cultural backgrounds, geographic locations, age groups and disabilities.

A team from Deakin University and the University of Sheffield undertook a national survey
of Australian arts and cultural organisations, with the aim of identifying strengths and
weaknesses in the work needed to diversify audiences. The project is funded by the Ian
Potter Foundation and Creative Australia. Check out the summary of national findings at Deakin University.