Keeping dance on the agenda this federal election
As we move closer to the 2025 federal election, it’s more important than ever that politicians and candidates hear one clear message: Dance matters.
Too often, dance and the wider creative industries are overlooked in policy conversations—despite their enormous social, cultural, and economic value. Ausdance VIC is actively working to change that. We’re contacting politicians and candidates across the state, speaking up for a thriving, inclusive, and sustainable dance sector—and we need your voice too.
What we’re asking for
The Ausdance National Network has put forward seven key recommendations to ensure a stronger future for dance in Australia:
- First Nations Dance Leadership
Direct investment in long-term workforce capacity for First Nations dance practitioners, leaders, and communities. - Safety in Dance
Support for the introduction of nationally consistent child safety standards, updated best practice guidelines, and expanded professional development. - Stronger Arts Education
Proper resourcing for arts education in schools and a reversal of unfair university fee increases for arts and humanities courses. - Fairer Pay and Workplace Protections
Action to address wage disparities and support for arts employers to meet their legal obligations around safety and pay. - Affordable and Accessible Venues
A review of government venue pricing to enable sustainable independent dance practice and production. - Dance and Wellbeing
Expansion of dance programs that support vulnerable and ageing Australians, building on evidence linking dance to better health outcomes. - Data-Driven Investment
Greater support for research and data collection to measure the true impact of the arts.
How you can help
You don’t need to be a policy expert to make a difference. As a voter and a member of the dance community, your voice matters. Here’s what you can do:
- Contact your local MPs and candidates. Let them know that the arts and culture are priorities for you. Ask where they stand on investment in arts education, venue access, workplace protections, and long-term sector sustainability.
- Use our template letter to get started. You can send it as is, or customise it to reflect your own story and priorities. It’s based on the advocacy points we’re taking directly to party officials.
- Find your candidates via the ABC A–Z Candidate Guide. Each electorate page includes links to candidate websites and contact details.
- Share your advocacy efforts. Talk to your community, post on social media, and encourage others to act. Change happens when people speak up—especially during an election.
A final word
We’re not telling you how to vote. We are encouraging you to vote informed. This election is a chance to champion the role of dance in Australia’s cultural life. Ask candidates how they will support artists, educators, and organisations like yours—and let them know that dance is a priority in your community.
Together, we can help make sure the future of dance is on the national agenda.