The City of Adelaide Strategic Plan 2024-2028 committed to the development of a Cultural Policy in that will be applicable to all areas of Council and its subsidiaries.

It is proposed that this Policy will operate over a ten-year timeframe and will be supported by strategies and action plans developed in alignment with the annual Business Plan and Budget process.

The Cultural Policy will reflect Council’s leadership role and responsibilities as the governing body for the Capital City of South Australia, and its commitments to sustainable development as part of Adelaide’s designation as a UNESCO Creative City and City of Music.

Essential to the success of the Cultural Policy is its alignment with Federal and State Government policy directions and fostering strategic partnerships with governments, the private and not-for-profit sectors, and community groups.

A commitment in the City of Adelaide’s 2024-2028 Strategic Plan is that our community will be vibrant, connected and inclusive. Council’s objective is to:

• Support our community to thrive
• Create fun, lively and interesting experiences
• Celebrate and honour our community and cultures.

This Cultural Policy will assist Council to achieve its ambition for the City of Adelaide to be an interesting and engaging place to live, learn and visit, with an inclusive, equitable and welcoming community where people feel a sense of belonging.

The Cultural Policy will reinforce the City of Adelaide’s reputation as a creative city that values culture and enhances everyday life.

Why is Council developing a Cultural Policy for the City of Adelaide?

The City of Adelaide Strategic Plan 2024-2028 committed to the development of a Cultural Policy applicable to all areas of Council and its subsidiaries.

Through this Policy, the City of Adelaide aims to be Australia's cultural and creative capital by nurturing careers and sector growth and supporting talent retention, through partnerships and co-investment. By leveraging its UNESCO Creative City status, Adelaide showcases local talent globally, driving economic growth through its cultural sector.

The City of Adelaide is committed to preserving its cultural and natural heritage and embracing revitalisation and progress. We will honour the continuous cultures of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples and aim to strengthen awareness of Kaurna culture and connection to Country.

We will celebrate and strengthen our world-class architecture, cultural assets, collections, and Park Lands, ensuring Adelaide’s distinctive identity and history are preserved for future generations. The city will also support diverse cultural traditions, including national commemorations, festive events, and social practices that reflect and unite the community.

How is this Policy going to be applied?

The Cultural Policy 2025-2036 guides the City of Adelaide in establishing culture as a central pillar of urban and environmental planning, city growth, economic development, social cohesion, and community life. Our aim is to enhance Adelaide’s reputation as a global cultural capital and contribute to a creative, connected, safe, resilient, inclusive, and sustainable city.

The principles and priorities of the Cultural Policy will be reflected in and enabled by strategies, operations, budgets and work plans across the organisation, including subsidiaries of Council. This cohesive and considered approach represents an efficient, effective and economical use of public resources through annual business plans and budget processes.

Council will also:

• Leverage networks, forums, and relationships at the national, state and local levels.
• Partner with government, non-government organisations, the private sector and the community; and
• Access expertise, attract resources, and sustain the city’s cultural and economic growth.

What is Culture?

The right to participate in the cultural life of the community is a fundamental and universal human right. Culture enriches our lives, fostering creativity, and celebrating our identity. It encompasses our way of life, values, traditions, and beliefs, as well as the arts, heritage, and creative industries. Culture is expressed through various forms such as art, architecture, festivals, food, language, literature, and music.

The City of Adelaide’s Cultural Policy defines culture as including:

• The city’s arts, creative, and heritage sectors
• The cultural practices of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples
• The diverse identities and experiences shaped by migration and history
• Contemporary cultural practices that reflect contemporary Adelaide and its communities.

How does Culture contribute to our city?

A city's culture shapes its identity, fostering belonging through traditions, festivals, and landmarks. Cultural activities bring communities together, promoting connection and tolerance in shared spaces. Access to cultural venues enhances quality of life and wellbeing by providing leisure, learning opportunities, and social interaction. Cultural investments revitalise neighbourhoods and attract creative talent, driving innovation and economic growth. The cultural industries, including tourism and arts, significantly contribute to the economy by creating jobs and supporting local businesses.