Port Macquarie-Hastings Council is calling on the local creative community to take a short survey to help shape the future of arts and culture in the region.
Council recognises the strong social, cultural and economic value of a vibrant creative community. Creativity and expression contribute to local identity, community wellbeing, and the ongoing vitality of our regional economy, and help build a shared sense of place and belonging.
In 2024, Council undertook Mapping Our Creative Landscape, a detailed engagement involving surveys and one-on-one interviews with people across the creative industries. This provided in-depth information to help guide the Council’s programs and areas of focus.
Since then, the conditions in which creatives, cultural organisations and audiences operate have continued to evolve. Access to affordable spaces, funding challenges, and opportunities for paid creative work are placing new pressures on the sector, particularly in regional areas.
This follow-up snapshot survey aims to better understand any shifts or new challenges facing the creative community in 2026, including confidence and sustainability in the sector, barriers to creative work, and priority areas where support could make the greatest difference.
Whether you work in the creative industries, support the sector, or participate as an audience member or community member, your experience matters. Your feedback will help guide Council’s programs, actions and investment to support a more resilient and sustainable creative sector.
The survey is open until 11 June, 2026 at 11:59 pm