Regional arts on 'level playing field' like never before

Speaking on a Regional Australia Institute webinar on Wednesday, looking at regional creative industry's community and economic development during COVID-19, Ms Abercrombie said a transfer from physical to digital connectivity in the performing arts sector had put those in the regions on a 'level playing field' with those in urban areas.

"In the past few months, we've run into issues with capacity, movement of people, communication and access, but the increased use of digital platforms have allowed for regional artists and organisations to have an access that was more equivalent and balanced," she said.

"We had regional presenters and regional artists on panels like never before, and we had ability to have online auditions.

"We know regional connectivity isn't as great as metro connectivity, and there are still issues with upload speeds, but on the whole, regionally-led recovery and regionally-led arts and creative opportunities is beaming with opportunity."

Ms Abercrombie said local governments could play a vital role in helping to assist creative industries in regional areas.

"It's about supporting education programs, supporting professional development opportunities, providing pathways for those on and behind the stage, connecting people with technology, education and training, and supporting the production and presentation of work," she said.

"In the coming years, it will be fundamental for local governments to support the development of local work, by local artists with local communities, so we don't necessarily have work coming from a city to a region, but rather having works move from region to region to form a more broad narrative."

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RAI chief economist Kim Houghton chaired the meeting, and said the "vibrancy" of creative industries in regional towns played a major role in attracting people to live or visit.

"RAI research has found that in a regional labour market, where many regions are struggling to attract and retain skilled, professional, trade and technical workers, it's often the particular attraction of cultural vitality that entices a worker to one place rather than another," he said.

"There is a lot of competition in regional Australia for these high-skill trade jobs and professions, and places that stand out seem to be doing better in terms of getting the workers they need."

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