ACT Minister for the Arts Joy Burch today launched the ACT Arts Policy Framework, which will guide the Government's arts policies for the next few years.

Ms Burch said the ACT Arts Policy Framework provides a renewed focus for Government support for the arts in coming years, including strengthening whole-of-Government strategies to promote the local arts sector.

"We received many submissions from the arts community, and one of the messages was that we need to better harness opportunities such as Enlighten and National Gallery of Australia blockbuster exhibitions to promote our wonderful local arts scene," Ms Burch said.

"I will continue to work with my colleague, Tourism Minister Andrew Barr, to look at how we can make the most of these opportunities and showcase our artists to a broader audience."

The Framework has been developed following the Review of the Arts in Canberra by
Peter Loxton and Associates.

The Framework's Guiding Vision is "Canberra and its region comprise an inclusive, unique and creative arts landscape where excellence is highly valued. The ACT is home to innovative artists and arts organisations and is an important part of the cultural richness of Australia."

It has four overarching principles: to facilitate community participation in and access to the arts; support artistic excellence and artistic diversity; strengthen the sustainability of arts organisations and the capacity of the arts to contribute to social and economic outcomes; and foster artistic innovation and creative thinking.

"Under the guidance of this document, I am confident that Canberra will remain the 'cultural capital' for many years to come," Ms Burch said.

For copies of the ACT Arts Policy Framework visit www.arts.act.gov.au