Creativity takes many forms – from visual and performing arts, to education, cultural expression and more commercial forms of creativity such as graphic design, architecture, app development and advanced manufacturing.

Creative industries also form a significant – and growing – part of our economy, supporting and generating jobs and investment.

The City of Greater Bendigo provides a range of creative services to the community, including Bendigo Art Gallery, The Capital and Ulumbarra theatres, Dudley House, Post Office Gallery, events such as the Bendigo Easter Festival and Bendigo Writers Festival and support for events like White Night and the Bendigo Blues and Roots Music Festival, and promoting local cultural attractions like the Golden Dragon Museum, Bendigo Pottery and Bendigo Heritage Attractions.

In recent community consultation, residents said they valued:

• Recognition of the importance and benefits of creativity
• Greater understanding and representation of Traditional Owners and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultural and creative practices
• Activation of public and private creative spaces
• Opportunities for connection and collaboration with artists and the wider community
• Opportunities to grow networks that are supportive and inclusive
• Support and opportunities for local artists and their initiatives
• Inclusion of culturally diverse people in local arts and creative industries