Policies and initiatives > Direction 6. A fairer city > Policy 6.4

Policy 6.4 – Develop a strong cultural environment and increase access to arts, recreation and other cultural facilities

Arts and culture are powerful community building tools. They provide tangible social and economic benefits and make a significant contribution to the attractiveness of the city as a place to live, work or visit.

Culture is about a way of life, a celebration of a community’s identity and values. Melbourne has a wealth of cultural facilities and resources, and plays host to numerous arts, cultural and sporting events and festivals. It is important that these continue to develop and that they are accessible for all. Melbourne needs to reinforce the existing major precincts for arts, sports and major events of Statewide appeal. Proposed new facilities must be well located for services and transport.

Participation and engagement in creative activities, such as locally based arts and crafts practice and community-driven creative projects, is important to foster a culture of creativity and innovation within local communities. Access to these should be available across Melbourne.

Arts and cultural facilities are key infrastructure components. Activity centres, which reflect the arts and cultural preferences of their communities, are already focal points for communities and will become even more important. A wider range of arts, cultural and entertainment facilities, including cinemas, restaurants, nightclubs and live theatres, will be required at Principal and Major Activity Centres throughout Melbourne.

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