Visual arts work to be recognised in federal modern award in historic Fair Work proposal

Released on Friday 14 August, a landmark Fair Work Commission decision has signalled significant changes to how arts and cultural workers may be recognised and employed in Australia. For the first time, arts and cultural work is being considered for clearer coverage within a federal modern award — an important step towards formally recognising the arts as a workforce and an industry. Currently, arts and cultural workers can fall under a range of different awards, and there can be uncertainty about which award applies to particular roles and workplaces. Proposed changes to the Amusement, Events and Recreation Award aim to provide clearer coverage for arts and cultural organisations and their employees.

While the Fair Work Commission’s decision is a significant milestone, the proposed amendments, classifications, pay rates and practical application have not yet been finalised or come into effect. Arts North West will continue to monitor these developments and provide clear, practical information for our region’s artists, arts workers and organisations as the changes are finalised and come into effect as well as continue to lobby for the Payment Standards in the Code of Practice for Visual Arts, Craft and Design become legislation for artists and creatives across the country –

https://visualarts.net.au/news-opinion/2026/arts-to-be-recognised-modern-award-fair-work-proposal/

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