Local arts organisations benefit from State Government philanthropy program

Eight local arts organisations will share $176,500 from the State Government-administered Philanthropy Incentive Program (PIP).

Culture and the Arts Minister John Day acknowledged the support of the Mostyn, Galvin, Rowley and Tate families and noted they had nominated arts organisations in which they had shown interest.

"We are extremely keen to see others take advantage of the program and to promote philanthropy for the arts in Western Australia," Mr Day said.

"This program complements the work of the WA Artsupport manager in engaging Western Australia's big proportion of high wealth individuals who are philanthropic.

"There are a number of tax effective ways in which businesses and individuals can give to the arts and this program aims to give an additional push to those considering setting up a fund or a trust for charitable purposes.

"As part of this, the State Government contributes up to 7.5 per cent of initial start-up funds to help establish philanthropic trusts of $500,000 or more.

"The establishment of four new foundations, with a net worth of $4.47million, has meant that a number of key arts organisations will directly receive extra funds through PIP.

"The nominated philanthropic areas of these trusts range widely from health to youth and regional support but all have also committed to supporting arts and culture."

The WA Artsupport position is jointly funded by the Department of Culture and the Arts and the Australia Council for the Arts.  The PIP grants will be as follows:

• West Australian Opera - $20,000
• West Australian Symphony Orchestra - $10,000
• Barking Gecko - $10,000
• Youth Ballet WA - $10,000
• Fremantle Children's Literature Centre - $25,000
• artsource - $25,000
• Sculpture by the Sea (WA) - $37,500
• Theatre Kimberley - $39,000

Minister's office - 9213 6600