The primary political messaging has been focused on cost-of-living pressures and the housing crisis, but as Australians head to the polls on 3 May, 2025, those in the nation’s arts and cultural sector will be keenly watching the result for glimpses into their possible future.

The COVID-19 pandemic, coupled with ongoing funding challenges, has left many artists and arts institutions grappling with uncertainty and financial insecurity. With that in mind, Limelight takes a look at the arts policies proposed by the Australian Greens, the Australian Labor Party and the Liberal-National Coalition.

Photo © Harrison McCourt/Pexels

The Greens: A Comprehensive Cultural Revival

Positioning themselves as “the party of the arts”, the Australian Greens have unveiled an ambitious plan aimed at rejuvenating Australia’s cultural landscape. Senator Sarah Hanson-Young, the party’s arts spokesperson, emphasised the urgency of supporting creatives facing financial hardship and institutional instability.

“The creative sector is in turmoil right now with too many creatives struggling to make ends meet, venues facing closure and festivals cancelled,” Hanson-Young stated.

“The Greens plan will ensure more artists are paid, more venues stay open and more audiences enjoy world class work. Artists need funding for their work, freedom...