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
Enjoy a tipple with some of Sydney’s top academics and tech entrepreneursRaising the Bar: an evening of big ideas and future-shaping innovations across architecture, biotech, sustainability and more.20 March 2023News
In pictures: Pride March across the Sydney Harbour BridgeThe iconic landmark saw 50,000 people turn out in their brightest colours.7 March 2023News
New mural depicts obscured faces from Australia’s pastArtist Fintan Magee has created Lost Figures on the wall of a Darlington building.3 March 2023News
In pictures: Mardi Gras 2023Celebrating the triumphant return of Mardi Gras to its historic home – the Golden Mile!27 February 2023News
Coloured Diggers March: making Anzac Day a celebration for allMeet the grant recipient recognising First Nations peoples who served.27 February 2023News
Discover our rainbow city at Sydney WorldPrideYou can’t miss the explosion of colour taking over the town right now. Follow the rainbow and enjoy these displays in our area.20 February 2023News
The first Mardi Gras was a riotHow the love that dared not speak its name found its voice.14 February 2023News
Loud and proud: The groups making queer life better at Sydney WorldPrideStory sharing, truth-telling and even a little bit of soul. These grant recipients share their stories.6 February 2023News
What you need to know about Sydney WorldPride 2023A massive celebration of LGBTIQA+ communities from around the world.31 January 2023News
Opportunity: Produce our annual organ recital program We’re seeking a contractor to create a dynamic series of performances for 2023 and 2024.23 January 2023