The Australia Council for the Arts has announced the findings for the third National Arts Participation Survey and the results show Territorians place a high value on arts and culture.

Department of Tourism and Culture CEO Alastair Shields said the research results show Territorians are highly engaged with 76% attending arts events including live music, exhibitions, dance shows and theatre in 2016.

“It is important that we invest in the future of the arts and the Northern Territory Government is demonstrating its commitment through initiatives like the Indigenous Arts Trail and the Museum at Myilly Point,” Mr Shields said. 

The $100 million Indigenous Art Trail will attract visitors from around the nation and internationally, providing a boost to the NT economy, while also providing an initiative for Territorians to embrace.

Mr Shields said the National Arts Participation Survey showed 57%, over half of Territorians, attend Indigenous arts opportunities from dance, storytelling, theatre, arts and craft. 

“There is a high level of Indigenous art participation in the Territory.

“The Indigenous Arts Trail, particularly the dedicated Iconic National Indigenous Art Gallery and the Iconic National Indigenous Cultural Centre, will celebrate the historical and ongoing contributions of Indigenous culture.

“The Indigenous Art Gallery will see the creation of a thriving place that embraces all forms of Indigenous art to reflect its importance to Australian culture,” Mr Shields said.

The results also show 82% of Territorians agree artists make an important contribution to society.

“I thank the Australia Council for the Arts for this initiative which reinforces the positive impacts arts and culture has on the Territory.

“Territorians agree that the arts reflect and contribute to society, to identity and to Australia’s international reputation,” Mr Shields said.