November 5th, 2021Boost for regional culture, heritage and arts

In a boost for community organisations across regional Australia, the federal government has announced the opening of the new $3 million Culture, Heritage and Arts Regional Tourism (CHART) program, to be delivered in 2021‑22.

Minister for Communications, Urban Infrastructure, Cities and the Arts, Paul Fletcher said the CHART grants program would support regional and remote communities to re-emerge from the Covid pandemic.

“The program will help successful applicants including museums, galleries and historical societies to stage events and improve their facilities to encourage tourists to return to regional areas, providing a much needed boost to their local economies,” Minister Fletcher said.

Under the program, community museums, galleries, and historical societies in regional Australia will be able to apply for grants of up to $3000.

Senator for Victoria Sarah Henderson said the funding will support activities that encourage cultural tourism, through the preservation of Australia’s cultural heritage and, in particular, the telling of the stories of local communities.

“With the (federal government’s) support, we will help rebuild our local economy through the development of collections or exhibits, improved facilities for visitors, and the digitisation of local heritage collections for future generations to enjoy,” Senator Henderson said.

“I encourage arts, cultural and heritage organisations to apply for a CHART program grant today – this will assist us to continue to offer appealing cultural tourism experiences in our regional community.”

The Australian Museums and Galleries Association (AMaGA) is delivering the program on behalf of the Government. Applications will close on 29 April 2022 or once all funding is expended, whichever comes first. For more details visit the AMaGA website at www.amaga.org.au/chart.