You might have seen the recent study by RMIT University revealing Australian artists earn an average of just $14k annually. It might not come as such a shock to our community but it really does raise some uncomfortable questions. Who gets to be an artist in Australia? Who can afford to create? Why is art widely appreciated yet artists are struggling to survive? We know it’s been tough on so many industries clawing their way back post-pandemic, but arts funding is often overlooked, for the past decade investment in the arts has decreased on a per capita basis, and these recent stats drive this point home. We’d like to open up the dialogue and ask about the experience of artists in our regional communities. Are you one of the many creatives balancing unpaid work, self-employment, and volunteer positions to keep your practice alive? Jump into the comments or fill out our survey to have your voice heard. (fb)

7NEWS Regional WA has featured our incredible Next Level 2025 Fellowship recipients — and we couldn’t be more proud! We’re so excited to see how the creative practices of Emily O'brien, Karrak Gregory and Laura Sikes will unfold over the next year and beyond. Regional Arts WA's Next Level Fellowships are part of the Regional Arts and Culture Investment Program, delivered by the Department of Local Government, Sport and Cultural Industries, with funding from the Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development. Find out more: https://www.wa.gov.au/government/media-statements/Cook%20Labor%20Government/Funding-takes-young-regional-artists-from-storyboard-to-reality-20250501 (fb)