Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities will receive a $250,000 boost to arts and cultural activities through a Queensland Government funding program, Minister for the Arts Anna Bligh announced today.

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Education & Arts, Anna Bligh
educ...@cabinet.qld.gov.au
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16/07/04

Ms Bligh said the 2004-05 Indigenous Regional Arts Development Fund (IRADF) allocation was the largest in the program's history, and would enable more communities to participate in the state's vibrant creative environment.

"IRADF is a unique model of arts funding that ensures Indigenous communities in regional and remote areas of Queensland are able to make an ongoing and significant contribution to Queensland's arts and cultural life," she said.

"The program allows participating councils and organisations to build on the arts and cultural strengths of Queensland's diverse regions by funding projects that are most beneficial to their local community."

Ms Bligh said all 19 eligible councils and organisations would be funded in 2004-05, with the program helping to develop projects or activities in each community.

"IRADF also provides opportunities for broader community links to ensure the development of skills including traditional dance and language programs, youth strategies and open days," she said.

"It ensures that more Queenslanders are able to celebrate and promote the state's diverse regions and their distinctive arts and cultural activities."

Ms Bligh said the $250,000 allocation was part of the Queensland Government's $3 million commitment which supports both the IRADF and Regional Arts Development Fund (RADF) program's grants and operational costs.

Interested Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander artists and artsworkers in regional areas are encouraged to contact their local council for information on how to access funding.

Media contact: Shari Armistead 3235 4593