6 February 2026

2026 in now well and truly underway. It’s always interesting to gauge how we feel as we get going. For me this year, I feel quite optimistic. Despite the challenges that abound right now across our sector, I nevertheless feel that we have opportunities in 2026.

The first of these relates to the fact that we will have – for the first time – a government strategy for regional arts. Okay, it hasn’t started entirely well, given that the scheduled launch in Tamworth got postponed due to the death of the local member (and Shadow Arts Minister)’s wife, but it is still a step forward and should launch soon. Thank you to the working group that contributed to the plan, including our own RANSW Board member Tim Kurylowicz, who chaired the working group.

Secondly, Regional Arts NSW has moved into a stronger position, after a period of challenge stemming from the decision by the NSW Government back in in 2020 to de-fund the organisation. We have worked our way back into multi-year funding from Create NSW, we have stronger, more diversified income streams, and a relevant program of work. It is also reassuring to know that all the work we did in 2025 in advocacy paid off, and that we are an organisation with a genuine voice in representing the needs of regional NSW in the arts.

In 2026 RANSW turns 80. There is much to celebrate, and we will be inviting you to come along for the ride as we find a variety of ways to mark this milestone and to recognise a strong history of working to support arts and culture in regional NSW.

Tracey Callinan, Regional Arts NSW CEO