Mandurah council backs $844,295-a-year arts centre funding deal despite subsidy
Mandurah council voted 7-4 to approve a new funding agreement with its performing arts centre through to 2036.
The City of Mandurah has approved a new funding agreement with its performing arts centre, set to run through June 2036. The council voted 7-4 on September 22 to back the deal.
The new agreement replaces one that expired in June. The new structure creates separate funding reserves for maintenance and capital works.
The city must review its contribution every three years. Cr Jacob Cumberworth opposed the deal.
He argued the subsidy was too high for a venue that draws more than 100,000 visitors yearly and is always fully booked. "For such an amazing venue, $850,000 a year in subsidies is excessive," he said.
He noted ticket prices in Mandurah were cheaper than the same shows in nearby Bunbury. City staff countered that touring shows adjust pricing based on travel distance.
The centre's superior facilities, sound, lighting and technical support allow lower ticket prices.
- $844,295
- Annual subsidy
- 7-4 in favour
- Council vote
- Through June 30, 2036
- Agreement term
- More than 100,000
- Annual visitors
Why it mattersThe subsidy debate highlights the tension between making arts venues affordable for local audiences and pushing venues toward financial independence.
AustraliaMandurah residents will continue to access performing arts at below-cost ticket prices, funded by ratepayers, through at least 2036.
✓ Claims checked against the source and corrected before publish. checked 2 h ago
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