Creative Industries Minister emphasized that access to arts and culture strengthens communities, with the Arts Activities in Regional Communities program backing regional artists and local governments to deliver community-led projects that celebrate local stories and engage people of all ages.

Port Hedland’s TOPH manager pledged to partner with local organizations to deliver events celebrating the Pilbara’s uniqueness and inclusivity, supported by the Department of Creative Industries, Tourism and Sport and the Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development.

The Western Australian government allocated almost $780,000 to 17 regional communities through the Arts Activities in Regional Communities program for 2025-26, to be delivered in 2026 and 2027.

Theatre Kimberley received $59,684 for It Made You Feel Important, a community-focused circus development project funding the Sandfly Circus Show and six weeks of intensive training for over 100 school-aged students.

Karratha funding will support the REAF in the Regions program, expanding activations to Wickham, Cossack, Roebourne, and Point Samson to reinforce the area as a regional cultural hub.

Kimberley Arts Network secured $52,781 for The Kimberley Open Studios Trail, expanding the Broome Fringe Festival Art Trail model region-wide with development support, workshops, and upskilling to ensure Trail-readiness from June 27 to July 4.

Pilbara Pride Week dates are not yet confirmed at the time of reporting.

Port Hedland’s funding aims to deliver inclusive events that celebrate identity and strengthen community connection, blending drag, cabaret, and burlesque as a community favourite.

In the Kimberley region, multiple organizations received funding to support festivals, performances, public art, cultural planning, and professional development, including specific projects in Broome and surrounding communities.

Port Hedland received $15,100 to support Unleashed — Pilbara Pride Week 2026, with Unleashed returning as part of Pilbara Pride Week.

The City of Karratha received $59,809 for the 2026 Red Earth Arts Festival, described as the region’s premier arts and cultural festival, planned for May 14–17 with Indigenous artwork installations, burlesque, and award-winning performers.

A $780,000 State Government funding boost will support 17 regional arts projects across Western Australia for 2025–26, prioritizing community-led initiatives and strengthening access to the creative industries in regional areas.