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 cityPeople & communities
Reconciliation
City of Sydney News
News
Your time to shine at Sydney StreetsShare your talents and entertain audiences at our spring and summer community events22 July 2024News
In pictures: NAIDOC in the City 2024A celebration of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander art, businesses, dance and music.16 July 2024News
Here are our 2024 Little Sydney Lives finalists Sydney’s youngest photographers have been creating lively new works that capture their fresh perspectives. These images were taken by kids aged 5 to 12.25 July 2024News
Finalists for the 2024 Australian Life photography competition have been announcedTake an intimate journey through contrasting scenes of connection, resilience and play, and vote for your favourite from 1 August.18 July 2024News
Reimagine the cultural and creative life of Sydney We need your help on our plan to support the future of the arts12 July 2024News
Shape the future of your libraryTake part in this survey and help us understand how our 9 branches make a difference.9 July 2024News
NAIDOC in the City takes over Sydney Town Hall A celebration of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander music, dance, art and enterprise as part of NAIDOC Week.5 July 2024News
Call for artwork from refugee artistsShare your artwork of hope, welcome and belonging27 June 2024News
Lights, camera, action: Sydney Film Festival opens Grab your choc tops and popcorn, and settle in for some great cinema from 5 to 16 June4 June 2024