Noosa Cultural Plan 2019-2023 Implementation Update · Att 1 - 2023 Cultural Plan Report

At the conclusion of the Noosa Cultural Plan 2019-2023 work commences on the next plan to steer Noosa Council’s commitments in the
arts and cultural space. Learnings from the previous plan are essential in maintaining forward momentum and ensuring arts and
cultural activity remains contemporary, forward focused and reflective of ever-changing community needs and expectations.

Considerations of future arts and cultural planning will include the following:

   •   It is widely recognised that investment in creative capital has the capacity to add resilience to local economies, particularly in
       times of rapid change and uncertainty. Skills associated with artistic practice – creative thinking, self-discipline, risk taking and
       innovation – are skills that are in great demand in the knowledge economy. Findings from the report commissioned by Creative
       Australia ‘The Creative Economy in Australia – What Census 2021 Tells Us’ shows that there was a 3.4% growth in creative
       employment in the Noosa region between 2016 and 2021, one of the highest growth rates in Queensland. It is essential that
       future cultural planning supports the development and growth of the creative economy, harnesses the skills of our local
       creatives and provides pathways to professional, sustainable arts practice within our immediate region.

   •    The COVID-19 pandemic shone a new light on the mental health implications of isolation and loneliness within our
       communities. Participation in arts and culturally based activity can contribute to strengthening social relationships and
       networks, which in turn increase the likelihood of good mental health and wellbeing. Future cultural planning must focus on
       providing a diverse range of opportunities for our community to easily access and engage in arts and cultural activity.

   •   Much of Noosa’s cultural infrastructure is no longer fit for purpose. In consequence, we have lost the opportunity to bring the
       best arts and cultural experiences from across the world to our region. Noosa is geographically advantaged due to its proximity
       to Brisbane, temperate climate and inspiring natural landscape. With modern, contemporary arts and cultural facilities Noosa
       can quickly become a recognized centre of arts and culture, benefiting both the local community and visitors to the region.
       Future cultural plans must be aspirational and future focused, recognising that bespoke arts infrastructure is essential to
       enhancing the community’s arts and cultural experiences.