Communities across South East Queensland (SEQ) are set to benefit from $10 million in Australian Government funding for public art initiatives, with applicant guidelines released on Monday.
The investment is part of the $1.8 billion SEQ partnership between the Australian Government, Queensland Government and Council of Mayors (SEQ), which aims to improve the accessibility, prosperity and liveability of the region – home to around four million residents.
Funding is available to eligible local governments to support artists create public art and architecture projects that enhance the liveability of the region.
Approved projects will enhance the quality of public spaces, contribute to a greater sense of community, and increase access to cultural experiences throughout the region.
Reflecting the richness of the region’s local communities, the initiative will also maximise opportunities for First Nations artists, artists with disability, and artists from culturally or linguistically diverse backgrounds.
Minister for Cities Jenny McAllister said investing in public art and architecture made our cities more liveable and beautiful, while also creating places to bring our communities together.
“South East Queensland’s vibrant public art scene will benefit greatly as a result of this initiative,” Queensland State Development Minister Grace Grace said.
“The South East is already home to some of the most talented artists in the country and we want to ensure they have more opportunities to showcase their works.
“Public art can greatly enhance local communities and that’s what this is all about.”
Council of Mayors (SEQ) Chair and Brisbane Lord Mayor Adrian Schrinner said this announcement came at a time when our region was growing rapidly with more Australians wanting to call South East Queensland home.
“The world will be watching Brisbane in 2032 and public art is one of the positive legacies we can deliver today, during the Games and beyond,” he said.
Eligible local governments which include Noosa Council will receive a baseline funding allocation of $350,000 plus a proportional allocation based on 2020 population data, which amounts to an extra $110,000 for Noosa Council.
Applications will open late this year with successful projects announced in 2025.
The SEQ City Deal Public Art Initiatives applicant guidelines can be viewed at www.statedevelopment.qld.gov.au/infrastructure/projects-and-programs/south-east-queensland-seq-city-deal/a-more-liveable-seq.
