Fremantle Biennale funding

The City's response to PerthNow Cockburn about Fremantle Biennale funding, 12.12.24

Question: If council does not want to see the Fremantle Biennale associated with Cockburn, will the area allow the art display at Omeo shipwreck?
Answer: Council has declined a request to sponsor Fremantle Biennale in 2024. This is a financial decision relating to sponsorship and not a decision to prohibit the event from taking place. 
If an event application is made, it will be considered through the regular approvals process.

Question: Does declining the application mean Cockburn does not support art and culture?
Answer: The City is committed to supporting arts and culture, recognising their vital role in fostering community identity, belonging, and connectedness.

• We invest in a wide range of initiatives, including:
• Launching new performance programs like the Little and Loud Family Festival in January 2025
• Delivering Coogee Live, our award-winning flagship arts and culture event, in March 2025
• Offering cultural grants, subsidised venue access, and in-kind support to address the arts venue crisis
• We also prioritise local artist engagement through quarterly events, a dedicated artist database, and partnerships that support sector development.

These initiatives complement our established programs and demonstrate our commitment to nurturing a vibrant cultural life for Cockburn.