Culture & creativity
The City is committed to supporting Sydney’s cultural life. We recognise the intrinsic and instrumental value of creativity as a cultural, economic and social force.
Why we’re doing this
Sydney faces the challenges posed by a changing economy, a rapidly growing population, and shifting environmental and social conditions.
Failure to confront these challenges has the capacity to produce widespread inequality, disrupt our economy, and leave a negative legacy for future generations.
It is important that everyone in Sydney and New South Wales is able to engage with, and contribute to, our cultural life. All of us have the right to access and contribute to the creation of the kind of city we will enjoy visiting, working and living in.
The political, economic, social and cultural rights of the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities must be embedded in the city’s economic, social, environmental and cultural change.
Initiative, experimentation and enterprise are the bedrock of creativity. By encouraging them, we not only support economic development but enhance a sense of civic participation and cohesion. This ensures a greater number of people feel a stewardship of place, common heritage and are engaged in the cultural life of the city.
Harnessing our combined energy will produce a strong, cohesive sense of who we are, and what we want Sydney to be. This common culture will help us meet the challenges of the future, and ensure our city remains not only economically viable, but also an inclusive and interesting place to live, work and visit.
Urban design and regulation, increased opportunities for creativity, a balance between residential amenity and a vibrant evening economy, a range of public spaces, support for innovation and experimentation, and the reduction of barriers, such as housing costs, as well as arts funding and infrastructure will ensure diverse and active participation in Sydney’s cultural life.
Action areas
Culture & creativity
Creative cityCulture & creativity
ReconciliationCulture & creativity
Public art
City of Sydney News
News
New music hub showcases Vivid’s best live actsMachine Hall will host an impressive line-up of local and international artists16 May 2024News
Bring your idea to life in Haymarket with $200,000Applications are now open for festivals, events or pop-up attractions16 May 2024News
Join us for National Simultaneous StorytimeMore than 2 million kids across Australia will read the same book, at the same time15 May 2024News
Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander knowledge leads the way at 119 Redfern Street Project manager Tracey Duncan shares the importance of the community-driven space.14 May 2024News
In pictures: the opening of 119 Redfern StreetA centre for local Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people to share knowledge and practise culture has opened in the heart of Redfern.13 May 2024News
Biennale stories: hear from Sydney artist Kirtika KainDelhi-born Australian artist, Kirtika Kain shares the inspiration and process behind her latest work.7 May 2024News
Thirsty for history? Order a drink with a dash of old SydneyPull up a bar stool at one of these 7 locations and experience our city's past18 April 2024News
In pictures: Redfern Community Centre turns 20 Locals and former employees share their fondest memories. Warning: this article contains images of deceased Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people.16 April 2024News
Bloody Big Survey: Share your experience with periods and help advocate for changeHave your voice heard anonymously in the world’s most extensive collection of data on menstruation and period poverty by 31 May.26 March 2024News
Faith, family and fasting for City ranger during RamadanFrom pre-dawn meals to festive celebrations, Mohammed reflects on charity, prayer and personal growth in the holiest time of the year for Muslims worldwide.18 March 2024