"It has never been harder to make a living in the creative sector." What's gone wrong in Australia's arts capital?

For decades, the assumption has been that if you're from one of the smaller towns in Australia and you want a career in the arts, you'll have to move to Melbourne. But, according to a new report tabled in the Victorian parliament last week on the cultural and creative industries, "It has never been harder for Victorians to make a living in the creative sector". Georgie Purcell, who headed that inquiry, shares the lessons she's hoping the government (and governments around Australia) can learn.

And La Mama Theatre survived a fire and the pandemic, but has had to pause performances this year to try to figure out how to build a more sustainable future. CEO Caitlin Dullard explains what's led to that pause and what the future might look like — for La Mama and for independent theatre across Australia.

Our track of the week is Bawuypawuy by Drifting Clouds, chosen by Sara Glaidous.

Stories mentioned in the headlines:

NSW government unveils $380m arts package

Miles Franklin shortlist announced

Man Sits On and Breaks Crystal-Encrusted 'Van Gogh' Chair in Italian Museum Before Fleeing

Globally recognised Lockhart River Art Centre on verge of collapse

Rudi Bremer, Teresa Tan, and Daniel Browning win mid-year Walkley for art journalism