1,000 signatures reached
To: Vicki Ward, Minister for Creative Industries
STOP ARTS CENTRE MELBOURNE GOING BACKWARDS
After years of high inflation, workers are facing yet another real wage cut.
Arts Centre Melbourne (ACM) is Australia’s largest performing arts venue.
It is a treasured Victorian institution that brings world-class performances and cultural experiences to millions of people each year. Its staff are responsible for its continued excellence.
But to continue delivering at that standard, it must be properly staffed and funded.
Australia's creative industries are facing a critical workforce and skills shortage because of stagnating wages and a lack of opportunities.
At ACM, wages have fallen 10% behind inflation since 2022. Nearly 40% of the workforce is on the lowest pay band (Band 1), with much of this group now paid the minimum award wage.
Despite this, staff have only been offered a 3% increase this year due to the state government-imposed wage cap - yet another wage cut in real terms.
This problem hasn’t come out of nowhere.
Funding for cultural and creative agencies has been slashed across the board by the Victorian Government in recent years.
Arts and culture are not luxuries. They are a core part of what makes Melbourne the world's third most liveable city.
Adequate funding is essential not only to preserve the quality and accessibility of our arts sector, but also to ensure it continues to attract visitors, support jobs, strengthen communities, and contribute to the state's economy.
We are calling on the Minister for Creative Industries, the Hon. Vicki Ward to:
- Increase funding to Arts Centre Melbourne and give workers a real pay increase that reverses years of real wage decline.
Why is this important?
Currently, Arts Centre Melbourne union members are fighting for a fair pay deal. This is the first time ACM staff have ever taken industrial action.
Industrial action is never taken lightly, but ACM staff have been left with no other choice.
A fair deal is possible!
We ask for your support so that ACM staff can continue to deliver world-class performances to Victorians.