Peak arts body announces operational review

The Chamber of Arts and Culture WA is undertaking an “urgent” review of its operations, with chair Phil Thick declaring changes needed to be made for it to continue as the sector’s peak body.

In a statement, the chamber said its board would examine the organisation’s purpose and explore options for a more sustainable business model.

“The review had been made necessary by a ‘perfect storm’ of circumstances including rising operational costs, decreasing support in the current economic climate and an inability to attract sufficient alternative, recurrent operational funding,” Mr Thick said.

“If the chamber is to continue as the sector’s peak body, there must be a significant change in how it is funded and operates.

“Like many of our members, whom we are proud to represent, the Chamber has struggled to attract the funding and other support required for a sustainable future.”

According to the chamber’s most recent financials, it posted a slight surplus of $3,257 in 2021, with revenue reaching $358,444.

Its main sources of income in 2021 was from corporates ($137,000) and operating grants ($95,000).

Chamber of Arts and Culture WA executive director Kim Jameson said while the organisation was viable for now, it's operating model was not sustainable in the long term. 

Ms Jameson said costs had risen while corporate support had decreased, and while the chamber could access grant funding, it did not cover core operational costs.  

She told Business News the challenges the chamber had were similar to those of other small and medium organisations in the sector.

She said the review was an opportunity to make significant changes to its operating model and lead by example.

The process, including extensive stakeholder engagement, will be supported by a one-off grant from the Department of Local Government, Sport and Culture.

The chamber said the first step would involve meeting membership to explain the purpose of the review.

It's activities, like its Sector Capacity Building program and Members Assistance Scheme, will continue to be delivered and planning is underway for an Ethical Partnership Summit in October.

The news comes months after another arts peak body revealed financial strain.

In April, West Australian Music made about half of its staff redundant, leaving the organisation with 4.8 full time equivalent staff.