Dance action plan 2006-08

Dance is one of the most challenging artforms to create and to sustain. We have to ensure that dance can express the spirit of our country by supporting excellence, encouraging participation, increasing distribution and enhancing artists and companies sustainability.

Background

Australian dance is currently at the forefront of arts in Australia and internationally. It produces some of the highest quality dancers in the world and supports a wide-ranging sector – from Flamenco to dance on film, from traditional Indigenous dance to youth dance companies. 

In 2003 the dance board released Resourcing Dance, an analysis of the subsidised dance sector in Australia. This analysis detailed the issues facing the sector, such as the small number of contemporary performing arts centres presenting dance, continuing low levels of pay and a lack of support for choreographers in their early years of practice. Further, the report identified the need for up to five million dollars to assist the sector in realising its extraordinary potential.  Whilst the dance board has delivered against a number of Resourcing Dance recommendations - including developing relationships with the Tertiary Dance Council, investment in the Mobile States consortia of touring promoters and a major national initiative with festivals - the dance board through Council continues to actively seek the additional investment required.

With limited finances, the dance board has sought to leverage strategic support and encourage partnerships across the sector. The board itself aims to work strategically to make best use of available resources. This action plan details a vision for dance for the coming two years. It will be shared with all State and Territory funding agencies, inviting feedback, collaboration and support.

The dance board is one of six artform boards that share the strategic directions of Council. In addition we engage in international market development and promotion; education and creative communities via partnerships and strategic relationships with other sections of Council and government. In this way, the dance board contributes to the arts environment on a cultural, community and economic level.

Our desire is to ensure the development of Australian dance, growth rather than just survival. The dance board seeks to expand the vibrancy, diversity and accessibility of Australian dance. Our vision is to see dance thrive.

The Australia Council's dance action plan has been developed by the Dance Director and her staff in consultation with the dance board and Council.

Your feedback is welcome and should be put in writing and sent to dance@ozco.gov.au.