Building intergenerational trust within local communities through arts and culture 

New Approach (ANA) CEO Kate Fielding opted for a little audience participation to demonstrate the broad positive impacts of arts and culture and its important role within local government earlier this month. Kate was speaking as part of a panel discussion at the Australian Local Government Association (ALGA)’s National General Assembly on the theme ‘Addressing Intergenerational Trust’.

Evidence shows that arts and cultural activities can help combat isolation and increase wellbeing, foster social cohesion and inclusion, assist with disaster recovery, attract and retain workforces in rural and regional areas, and increase productivity. Creative activities are also especially effective at building connections across groups and generations.

Kate highlighted ANA research that shows Australians believe arts and culture is key to building healthy, connected communities, and recognise the important role of local councils in providing creative activities – more so than the other levels of government. In fact, our Big Picture analysis reveals that 24% of total cultural funding by governments in Australia comes from local councils. From libraries through to festivals, these local events and services help to bring people together, create a sense of place, and play an essential role in the cultural life of our nation.

The Assembly ran from 2 to 4 July at the National Convention Centre in Canberra, bringing together mayors, CEOs and councillors from across the country. This year’s theme was ‘Building Community Trust’, and focused on the critical importance of trust between governments, institutions and citizens. We’d like to thank the ALGA for inviting ANA to take part in the panel discussion. The other speakers were:

• Simon Kuestemacher, Director and Co-Founder, Demographics Group
• Rebecca McKenzie, Chief Executive Officer, Glen Eira City Council
• Ingrid Stonhill, Chief Executive Officer, Katherine Town Council
• Professor Valerie Cooms, Director, Centre for Aboriginal Economic Policy Research
• Tahlia Azaria, Executive Director, Young Mayors at The Foundation for Young Australians

Video courtesy of the ALGA