Kickstart Arts Incorporated
Kickstart Arts Incorporated is an Australian nonprofit organisation operating in New Town, Tasmania, focused on community arts and cultural development. Registered with the Australian Charities and Not-for-profits Commission (ACNC), it promotes health, wellbeing, and social change through arts initiatives[1][2].

History and mission

Established as a community arts hub, Kickstart Arts engages artists and communities to foster inclusivity and creativity. Its programs aim to build employment readiness and social engagement, particularly among marginalized groups[5]. Since its inception, the organisation has directly involved over 9,000 participants and attracted audiences exceeding 34,000 annually through exhibitions, performances, and workshops[5].

Activities

The organisation hosts residencies for artists, bands, and cultural groups, including Drill Performance, Story Island, and the Lutruwita Art Orchestra[1]. It provides affordable studio spaces and runs initiatives such as community gardens, repair cafés, and skill-building workshops[1][4]. Collaborative projects emphasize cross-sector partnerships, with 29 joint ventures reported in recent years[5].

Governance and recognition

Kickstart Arts operates under a board of management and employs artists and arts workers for project delivery[3][5]. It has received multiple awards, including three African–Australian awards in 2014, for advancing cultural access and artistic excellence[5]. The nonprofit also supports volunteer participation, engaging 73 volunteers annually alongside paid staff[5].

Impact

Programs emphasize skill development, mental health support, and community cohesion. Annual outputs include 58 new artworks, 129 workshops, and 59 sector-development activities[5]. Its online platforms reach over 11,000 users, expanding accessibility to arts resources[5].

[1] https://www.kickstartarts.org [2] https://www.acnc.gov.au/charity/charities/3375b92a-39af-e811-a963-000d3ad24077 [3] https://www.kickstartarts.org/people [4] https://www.acnc.gov.au/charity/charities/3375b92a-39af-e811-a963-000d3ad24077/documents/d6a12a59-51c8-e811-a961-000d3ad24282 [5] https://www.aph.gov.au/DocumentStore.ashx?id=f41c14a1-5010-4db1-abb6-0e5a66778281&subId=354804