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                    Arts research

                    People stand on a stage in a bright light.
                    New research proves investment in the arts is vital.

                    A new study by City of Melbourne and RMIT University which measures the economic impact of our investment in the arts confirms what we’ve always known: Melbournians love the arts and our investment in the arts is vital.

                    The report, titled The Economic Impact of the City of Melbourne's Investment in the Arts confirms our creative pride is justified with respondents agreeing the arts are essential and intrinsic to the city’s identity, creative edge and reputation.

                    From July to November 2016, RMIT researchers interviewed more than 1000 people, including artists, audience members who attended City of Melbourne run arts events, and members of the public to determine the value of our investment in the arts.

                    A few key findings include:

                    • Artists who were initially supported by City of Melbourne either secured paid work (65 per cent) or further funding opportunities (45 per cent).
                    • Seventy per cent of audience respondents said their main reason to visit Melbourne that day was to attend the arts event.
                    • Even when researchers sought out people who had not been to an arts event in a year, Melburnians still believed the arts were essential and wanted them preserved.
                    • Ninety per cent of audience respondents agreed the arts should be preserved for future generations.

                    City of Melbourne has recently committed $18.3 million to the arts in the 2017-18 budget, reflecting the community’s overwhelming support.

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