NAVA strongly opposes Creative Arts Program cuts at Southern Cross University
Media Release
The National Association for the Visual Arts (NAVA) expresses deep concern over the recent announcement by Southern Cross University (SCU) to discontinue its standalone creative art program, including undergraduate degrees in art and design, digital media and contemporary music.
Penelope Benton, Executive Director of NAVA, said, “These cuts will have far-reaching consequences for both the local and national art sectors, impacting regional NSW's cultural vibrancy and the future of creative industries in Australia.”
“The arts play an integral role in fostering cultural diversity, community connection, and economic resilience. Southern Cross University’s decision to cut these programs risks eroding the vital skills pipeline in regional NSW, reducing access to quality arts education, and stifling the future of regional creative industries.”
This decision comes despite evidence presented in SaSCA’s Workforce Planning Report for the Arts, Shaping Tomorrow, which highlights the importance of providing regional students with local training and education opportunities to sustain a viable skills pipeline for regional NSW.
Cutting these essential arts programs exacerbates critical skills shortages across the sector. Without specialised training, competitive salaries, and accessible education, workforce attrition will worsen, further destabilising the creative sector, and reinforcing the misconception that art is not a viable career. This perception, coupled with limited career pathways, restricts artists’ opportunities to build sustainable careers and diminishes the sector's capacity to retain talented practitioners.
"NAVA implores Southern Cross University to reconsider this decision and recognise the critical role of art and design education in regional Australia. Retaining these programs is crucial for preparing artists and creatives to contribute meaningfully to our society and economy," Benton continued. "Reducing access to quality creative education will only accelerate skill shortages and weaken Australia’s position as a globally recognised centre for arts and culture.”
“Institutions like Southern Cross University are indispensable within the creative ecosystem, connecting communities and enabling careers in areas where arts and culture drive innovation, sustainability, and social cohesion.”
In addition to diminishing access to quality creative education, the cost barriers associated with high tuition fees are significant deterrents for many young people pursuing careers in the arts. Shaping Tomorrow highlights how reducing fees would incentivise more students to enter the field and, ultimately, secure a stronger creative workforce for the future.
NAVA calls on Southern Cross University to reverse its decision and for the Federal Government to increase funding and policy support to protect arts education at all levels.
A comprehensive strategy that invests in creative education will safeguard Australia’s future creative sector and the communities it serves. This approach should embed the arts as a priority within the educational landscape, ensuring sustainability for generations to come.
Media Enquiries
Leya Reid
media@visualarts.net.au
About NAVA
The National Association for the Visual Arts (NAVA) is a Membership organisation that brings together the many voices of the contemporary arts sector to improve fundamental conditions of work and practice. We do this through advocacy, education and the Code of Practice. For further information on NAVA visit www.visualarts.net.au
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