Writers Victoria found out on Wednesday 18 December that their government funding had been cut completely.
Writers Victoria Chair Janice Gobey told Beat the organisation is dependent on Creative Victoria to cover operating costs.
Without finding alternative support, the organisation will have to close. Victoria will then become the only mainland state without funding for a peak writers body.
As Victoria’s peak writers organisation, Writers Victoria offers education and support to help writers navigate their creative journeys. Their program includes three seasons of workshops delivered by experienced writers covering diverse topics, WriteAbility for d/Deaf and disabled writers, plus manuscript development and membership support.
Writers Victoria
- Annual funding cut by 100 per cent through Creative Victoria on Wednesday 18 December
- Organisation will close without alternative support to cover operating costs
- Victoria to become only mainland state without funding for peak writers body
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Every other mainland state and territory funds their peak writers body. Queensland Writers receives $800,000 from their government. Writers Victoria was asking for just $147,500 per annum.
Gobey explains the organisation provides community and practical support for writers. You might have finished a degree, but need practical support from others who have been on that path. Many writers have found publishers or simply found their community through attending different events and workshops.
“The arts in Victoria are being eroded. A lack of government funding is slowly stripping away our cultural capital. Do we really want to live in a beige world – one without writing, reading, art, music and stories? Once these organisation shut they never come back,” Gobey said.
“Without Writers Victoria, we risk losing Victorian voices. When people look back on the literature of this time, there may be a void where these stories should have been. Writers will lose heart when they see their government doesn’t care or support them.
“Writers work mostly in isolation – it can be a lonely existence. Organisations like Writers Victoria provide community, learning, connection and motivation. They also offer something invaluable: feedback from peers who truly understand the craft.
“Writers earn very little – according to Creative Australia, the average income is $18 200 per annum. We provide work for writers who tutor our workshops – closing the organisation will mean that those writers have even less income”
The organisation has outlined several ways the community can support them.
People can sign a petition to restore funding here.
Booking a workshop for Season 1 is another option, with sessions almost sold out.
Following, liking and sharing on social media helps amplify the message, as does writing to Arts Minister Colin Brooks asking him to reverse the decision. Memberships are also available.
For more information, head here.
