Australia-Indonesia Institute Opens New Arts Program

A new series of grants for arts and cultural projects between Australia and Indonesia will help to build on existing cultural relationships between the two countries and develop new cultural programs and events.

Announced today by the Minister for Foreign and Affairs, Mr Alexander Downer and the Minister for the Arts and Sport, Senator Rod Kemp, the Saraswati Arts Program-named after the Goddess of Knowledge, Learning and the Arts-will include between five and 10 grants of up to $20,000 offered annually to organisations and individuals.

'The program aims to encourage Indonesian organisations to include Australian art work in their programs, and for Australians to similarly seek Indonesian partners for longer-term projects,' Mr Downer said.

'This collaborative approach recognises the unique culture of each country and will help to build international relations in our arts sector.'

The Saraswati program will be funded by the Australia-Indonesia Institute (AII) in collaboration with the Australia Council-the Australian Government's arts funding and advisory body.

Senator Kemp welcomed the opportunity to support the Saraswati Arts program. 'The program reflects a commitment to strengthening cultural relationships in our region through artistic collaboration and exchange,' Senator Kemp said.

'The benefits to Indonesian and Australian artists, arts organisations and audiences are immediate. This initiative also encourages the arts to assist long-term benefits for our respective communities.'

Saraswati Arts Program grants will not provide total funding for projects and potential applicants must have access to other sources of funding.

Information about the application process can be accessed from the Australia-Indonesia Institute website: www.dfat.gov.au/aii

Media inquiries: Chris Kenny (Mr Downer's office) 02 6277 7500 - Adrian Chippindale (Senator Kemp's office) 02 6277 7350 - Bill Richardson (Australia-Indonesia Institute) 02 6261 3827