Fund Fine Arts in NSW TAFEs

To the Honourable the Speaker and Members of the Legislative assembly of New South Wales.

This petition of citizens of NSW brings to the attention of the NSW Legislative Assembly the urgent need for maintaining funding for accessible art education in TAFE. The creative industries sector is an economic force, contributing over $30 billion to Australia each year – the arts not only create jobs but also create communities that are more vibrant, cohesive, healthy and innovative. TAFE in NSW puts the ability to make art in the hands of people, without regard to their age, wealth or background. TAFE provides hands on training that develops the skills necessary for artists to succeed.

TAFE art students go on to work in many art roles across other industries – in museums and galleries, in community health and local government, in entertainment and hospitality industries. Many of them set up small businesses teaching, producing and selling their art.

The undersigned petitioners therefore ask the Legislative Assembly, the NSW Premier, the Minister for Education and the Minister for Arts to recognise the value of TAFE arts education to NSW and to ensure it continues to be funded at viable levels that makes it accessible to all.