Ipswich City Council Arts and Cultural Strategy

OUR STRENGTHS AND OPPORTUNITIES There are significant opportunities to further foster, showcase and celebrate the arts and cultural contribution of our First Peoples. Our population of 210,012 3 people is projected to reach 520,000 by the year 2041. 4 This unprecedented pace of growth is also reflected in the age of Ipswich residents. Unlike the rest of Australia – which faces an ageing population – Ipswich is young. The median age of residents is 32 years, compared to 37 years for Queensland, and 38 years for Australia. 5 It is estimated that by 2036, over a third of our population will be under 25 years of age. 6 It will be a defining characteristic of our community. Ipswich hosts a thriving diverse community of practising creatives. There is a lively community-based arts scene, and a number of high-profile, active music and theatre groups. With many talented artists settling in the region, our bonds as a community are strengthened both through small and large-scale arts and cultural activities, and traditional gatherings. The city’s commitment to staying in the forefront of digital connectivity will be an important attractor for future creative businesses. Reflecting this, the 2016 launch of Fire Station 101 will assist digital start-ups and create a skills pipeline for local entrepreneurs. Despite recent rapid population growth, Ipswich has maintained much of its architectural, natural and community charm and these heritage attractions play an essential role in attracting tourists and enhancing our urban environment. Ipswich City Centre is home to the Library, Art Gallery, Community Gallery, Civic Centre, and Studio 188 . The Workshops Rail Museum continues to be a significant attractor of visitors. As we grow further, arts and cultural facilities needs will increase both in Ipswich CBD, surrounding areas and in the new and emerging developments. 3 As per Ipswich City Council’s internal modelling undertaken in March 2018. 4 The State of Queensland, Department of Infrastructure, Local Government and Planning (2017) Shaping SEQ: South East Regional Queensland Regional Plan 2017. 5 Australian Bureau of Statistics, Census of Population and Housing, 2016 for Ipswich, Queensland and Australia. 6 State of Queensland, Office of Economical and Statistical Research (2012), Population and dwelling profile, Ipswich City Council. Arts and cultural activity thrives on open spaces as well as on the right built infrastructure. Our outdoor spaces, parklands, performance areas, and the defining Bremer River all form the canvas for our arts and cultural life. Arts and creative endeavours have played an important role in building a sense of shared excitement and optimism. With a burgeoning dance culture supported by regular Eisteddfods and independent dance studios operating across the city, a thriving local music scene and a dynamic visual arts ecosystem, Ipswich is a place where we embrace our past and imagine our future. Ipswich already has many of the advantages and opportunities needed to become a city enriched by arts and culture; our people, our creativity, skills and entrepreneurship as well as our arts and cultural organisations and facilities. Ipswich is an increasingly ethnically diverse city. The 2016 census shows that at least one in five (21.6%) residents was born overseas and there are 152 languages spoken. 2016 also saw Ipswich become a Refugee Welcome Zone, and we celebrate the social and cultural benefits that flow from hearing the stories and lived experiences of our emerging refugee community. 1 Ipswich also has a larger proportion of people identifying as Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander than Queensland in 2016. Despite the large growth in the city’s population over the last five years (16.1%), the proportion of residents identifying as Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander has increased from 4.2% of Ipswich residents identifying as Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander 2011 to 4.6% of residents in 2016. This is a higher growth than experienced in Queensland. 2 We recognise the unique contribution of our Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people to our cultural landscape and our cultural identity. 1 Australian Bureau of Statistics, Census of Population and Housing, 2016 2 Australian Bureau of Statistics, Census of Population and Housing, 2016. Image: NFGphoto. Photo of Aliesha Hartley, Ambassador of Ipswich City Council Protégé Master Classes. 13 12