Newcastle council unanimously adopts 10-year Cultural Plan for city's creative future

Newy 87.8 FM – City of Newcastle has unanimously adopted a new Cultural Plan 2026-2036, setting a 10-year roadmap for the city's arts, culture and creative industries.

The plan was adopted at last night's council meeting and will guide the council's commitment to the local cultural sector over the next decade.

A priority action is working with the NSW Government to assess options for long-term affordable access to creative spaces for artists, makers and cultural organisations, including progressing discussions on the feasibility of a Creative Land Trust that would acquire, hold and manage land and buildings in perpetuity for creative use.

City of Newcastle is one of only two councils in the state working with the government to safeguard cultural floor space in this way.

Lord Mayor Gavin Morris said culture was "not simply entertainment" and that the plan supported practical action, from affordable creative space and stronger support for local artists to investment in live music, nightlife and community infrastructure.

Community and Culture Strategic Advisory Committee Chair, Councillor Jenny Barrie, said more than 70 stakeholders were consulted, with the most common feedback calling for more accessible spaces, sustainable pathways and stronger inclusion.

Other short-term actions include trialling a microgrant program, championing an annual creative summit and partnering with the independent sector to increase year-round cultural activity in the western suburbs.

By 2036, the plan aims to embed First Nations leadership throughout cultural life, recognising the enduring cultural leadership of the Awabakal and Worimi peoples.

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