Collections
New Support for Western Australian Public Collections
Public collections provide opportunities to reflect on, explore and experience our many stories in community. These opportunities will be supported through a new suite of programs commencing in early 2008.
In August of 2003, a Museum Policy Reference Group chaired by Peter Watson MLA, Member for Albany, was set up to advise on matters relating to collections of Western Australia’s material heritage.
The Museum Policy Reference Group Report presented 16 key recommendations for how the Western Australian Government can assist this sector to fulfil its potential and provide quality experiences in accessing collections. The Department of Culture and the Arts has identified three key actions as a result of these recommendations:
1. Advocate and support nationally endorsed projects at the Cultural Ministers’ Council.
- This will mean increased support for the Collections Council of Australia (CCA), a commitment to pilot the Regional Hub Project proposed by the CCA and increased funding for the repatriation of Indigenous cultural property.
2. Strengthen relationships with key partners, Museums Australia WA and the Royal WA Historical Society.
- The Department of Culture and the Arts will work with key partners on strategic projects.
3. Expand grant opportunities for the collections sector via the following pilot funding:
- An additional $70,000 available through existing Department of Culture and the Arts grant programs: Emerging Curators and Short Term Artist in Residence.
- New funding of $80,000 specifically for development projects.
A committee, comprising of a broad representation, will be formed to provide input into the further development and implementation of the action plan.
Funding results
- Cultural Programs for Community Collections (CPCC) funding results - December 2008
- Cultural Programs for Community Collections (CPCC) funding results - April 2009
- Short-term Artist in Residence (STAR) funding results - April 2009
Reports for downloading
- DCA collections sector action plan in detail
- Report on a Survey of Western Australian Museums, Galleries, Indigenous Keeping Places and Local Collections
- Museum Policy Reference Group Report 2006
For more information contact the Senior Policy Officer Cultural Programs at the Department of Culture and the Arts.
