The Albanese Labor Government has announced the three recipients supported through the International Cultural Diplomacy Arts Funds. The Australian Youth Orchestra, Back to Back Theatre and The Australian Ballet will receive funding to assist in international engagements.

The Australian Youth Orchestra’s quartet: Robert Smith, Hannah Kim, Amayah Ryan and Noah Lawrence. Photo © Bowery Image Group

The Australian Youth Orchestra will be supported for its 16 June performance at New York’s Metropolitan Museum of Art.  Marking the opening of a permanent Australian First Nations art display, an AYO String Quartet comprising violinists Robert Smith and Hannah Kim, violist Amayah Ryan and cellist Noah Lawrence performed alongside composer-performer William Barton.

Back to Back Theatre’s funding supports its travel to the 2026 Festival d’Automne in Paris. Earlier this month, it was selected as the Festival’s Portrait artist – the first Australian artist to earn the honour, the company will present a series of different works and particiapte in a series of masterclasses, workshops and public discussions.

Across September and October, The Australian Ballet embarks on an international tour to Berkley, California and New York City with its production of Christopher Wheeldon’s Oscar. It will also premiere new work from Australian composer Stephanie Lake.

“The calibre of artists training and working in Australia is up there with some of the best in the world,” said Minister for the Arts, Tony Burke.

“This funding platforms our talent to the world, allowing the international community to discover what Australia’s arts landscape has to offer.”