Arts and Culture Monitor

On this page you will find results from the annual survey of Western Australians’ public values and attitudes towards, and attendance and participation in arts, culture and creativity.

• 73% of respondents indicated that they had attended or participated in arts and cultural activities over the past 12 months, down 1% point from 2025.
• However, when prompted about attendance at specific types of events, 86% of respondents mentioned that they attended at least one arts, cultural or creative event over the past 12 months.
• Cost was the main barrier for attending and participating in arts and cultural activities (58%).
• Over the next 12 months, 88% of respondents would like to be able to attend arts, cultural or creative events more often.

People support State Government investment in arts and culture  

• 82% of respondents agreed that the WA Government should invest in arts and culture to ensure activities are available to the public.  
• 55% of respondents thought the Western Australian Government’s allocation of $2.47 per person per week for arts and cultural activities, services and facilities in WA was too low, while 36% thought it was about right. Only 9% of respondents thought it was too high. 

Western Australians value arts education and access for children and young people  

• 92% of respondents agreed that it is important for children and young people to have access to arts, cultural and creative activities as part of their education.

Western Australians value arts and culture and believe it positively impacts their wellbeing 

• 83% of respondents agreed that arts and culture make them feel good. 
• 81% of respondents agreed that attending or participating in arts, cultural and creative activities and events has a positive impact on their mental health. 
• 73% of respondents agreed that attending or participating in arts, cultural and creative activities improves their sense of belonging and connection with others. 
• 81% of respondents agreed that attending or participating in arts, cultural and creative activities improves erstanding and respect for different cultures and perspectives.