A new national report has urged governments to take a more strategic, collaborative approach to arts and cultural investment, warning Australia risks falling behind internationally as federal per capita spending falls to its lowest level on record.

The Big Picture, released by advocacy group A New Approach (ANA), analyses public expenditure trends and argues that stronger coordination across all levels of government is needed to secure the future of Australia’s arts, culture and creativity system.

The report found federal per capita expenditure on arts and culture in 2023–24 was $114, the lowest level recorded. By contrast, state and territory per capita expenditure reached a record $123.

It also found Australia’s population grew by 27 per cent between 2007–08 and 2023–24, while total cultural expenditure increased by only 19 per cent over the same period.

Trumpeter Jenna Smith and the West Australian Symphony Orchestra, 2026. Photo © Artshoot Media

On an international comparison, Australia ranked 25th out of 31 OECD countries for expenditure on “recreation, culture and religion” as a share of GDP.

ANA said some recent state budget papers suggested investment had declined since 2023–24, adding to financial pressures already being felt across the sector.

At the same time, the report noted a growing share of arts and cultural investment is being directed to infrastructure, with 18 per cent of total spending in 2023–24 allocated to capital expenditure, compared with 11 per cent in 2009.

ANA chair Rupert Myer said governments should work together on a long-term cultural policy agenda.

“We believe governments at all levels should work together to make the most of their collective cultural investment and develop a long-term approach to cultural policy that is multi-partisan and multi-government,” Myer said.

“We need a unifying goal for the entire arts, culture and creativity system.”

Myer said consultation on the next National Cultural Policy presented an opportunity for better coordination between governments and more effective use of public investment.

“Now is the time to capitalise on good work already done, seize opportunities and enhance our future competitiveness,” he said.

“Sticking with the status quo is a lost opportunity to deliver the most effective and efficient investment in arts and culture; investment that helps connect communities, foster belonging and drive resilient, productive economies.”

ANA said the report supported calls for strategic policy action to ensure creative and cultural opportunities remained available to Australians “in every postcode”.

The organisation also called for improved data collection and analysis to support cross-jurisdictional decision-making and stronger collaboration between governments, industry, philanthropy and business.

View the interactive report here.