Restarting the arts sector in the Hunter Region

The Hunter Region arts sector has received a major boost today in its recovery from COVID-19, with an organisation in the Hunter electorate being awarded a share of more than $20 million under the fifth batch of grants from the Morrison Government’s $200 million Restart Investment to Sustain and Expand (RISE) Fund.

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Minister for Communications, Urban Infrastructure, Cities and the Arts, the Hon Paul Fletcher MP, said this $20 million in funding is especially important during such a difficult period for the sector.

“Demand for RISE funding has been significant since it opened last year. The latest funding will be allocated immediately to create more than 23,000 employment opportunities across the country,” Minister Fletcher said.

Liberal Patron Senator for the Hunter Region Hollie Hughes, said the funding will provide critical support for the local Regal Cinema Building Limited.

“I am delighted to announce that Regal Cinema Building Limited have received full funding of their grant request being $180,491 through Batch Five of the RISE Fund,” Senator Hughes said.

“This project will assist them with the “Newcastle International Film Festival: Bringing Audiences Back”, enticing regional audiences back to their local cinema.

Our commitment to these organisations will play an important part in rebuilding our local arts and entertainment sectors, and will assist in the long-term sustainability of cultural and creative organisations throughout the Hunter Region.”

To date, the Government has already allocated $160 million of the $200 million RISE Fund, creating more than 167,000 job opportunities and expanding cultural and creative experiences for audiences across Australia.

Given the urgency of applications and objectives of the Fund, applications are assessed expeditiously within the timeframes listed in the program guidelines.

The Morrison Government is investing more than $1 billion into the arts and creative sector in 2021- 22.