In Australia, sports policies have long emphasized grassroots participation, recognizing the benefits for both amateur individuals and elite sports. However, this focus on grassroots engagement appears to be missing from arts policies, which tend to prioritize audience engagement over active participation. This disparity raises questions about the broader implications for community involvement and cultural development. As we explore the differences between sports and arts policies, it becomes clear that a more balanced approach could enhance both sectors.
Sports policies in Australia are designed to increase participation at the grassroots level. The Australian Sports Commission’s Corporate Plan 2023–27 emphasizes involving more Australians in sports at all levels. This plan includes specific targets, such as ensuring that 47% of children aged 5–14 years participate in at least two hours of organized sport outside of school hours. The focus is on fostering clubs and associations that engage millions of Australians, promoting lifelong participation in sports.
State-level initiatives also reflect this grassroots focus. For example, the New South Wales Office for Sport aims to ensure that everyone in NSW participates in sport and active recreation throughout their lives. Similarly, Sport and Recreation Victoria’s top goal is to provide greater access and opportunities for all Victorians to participate in sport and recreation. These policies highlight the importance of community engagement and the role of sports in promoting physical health and social cohesion.
The emphasis on grassroots participation in sports is seen as a way to build a strong foundation for elite sports. By encouraging widespread involvement, these policies aim to identify and nurture talent from a young age, creating a pipeline of athletes who can compete at the highest levels. This approach not only benefits individuals but also contributes to national pride and international success in sports.
Audience-Centric Approach in Arts Policies
In contrast to sports policies, arts policies in Australia tend to focus more on audience engagement than on active participation. Creative Australia’s Corporate Plan 2023–27, for instance, aims to enable artists and cultural organizations to expand their reach to audiences. While the plan mentions removing barriers to equity and participation, the emphasis is primarily on Australians participating as audiences rather than as creators or performers.
This audience-centric approach is evident in various state-level arts policies as well. The focus is often on supporting cultural institutions, such as galleries, theaters, and museums, to attract and engage audiences. While these efforts are important for preserving and promoting cultural heritage, they may overlook the potential benefits of encouraging more active participation in the arts.
Active participation in the arts can have significant social and personal benefits, similar to those seen in sports. Engaging in creative activities can enhance mental health, foster social connections, and promote a sense of community. By prioritizing audience engagement over participation, arts policies may miss opportunities to harness these benefits and to cultivate a more vibrant and inclusive cultural landscape.
Bridging the Gap: A Balanced Approach
To address the disparity between sports and arts policies, a more balanced approach that emphasizes both audience engagement and active participation is needed. Encouraging grassroots involvement in the arts can complement existing efforts to attract audiences, creating a more holistic cultural policy framework. This approach can help to democratize access to the arts, making creative activities more accessible and inclusive for all Australians.
One way to achieve this balance is by supporting community-based arts programs that encourage active participation. These programs can provide opportunities for individuals of all ages and backgrounds to engage in creative activities, from visual arts and music to theater and dance. By fostering a culture of participation, these initiatives can help to build stronger, more connected communities.
Additionally, integrating arts education into school curricula can play a crucial role in promoting active participation from a young age. Providing students with opportunities to explore and develop their creative talents can have lasting benefits, both for individuals and for society as a whole. By investing in arts education, policymakers can help to ensure that the next generation values and engages with the arts.
