Over the next 12 months, the program will engage the community through various opportunities to help shape the Framework. The goal is to develop a strategy that fosters growth in the music sector by improving access to resources and building strong partnerships with government, industry organisations, and local businesses.

The key actions within the Framework will enable Council to better navigate regulatory challenges, strengthen industry connections, and support the creation, performance, and export of high-quality music. By supporting the local sector, we will foster meaningful, long-term careers and attract and retain a talented creative workforce in Cairns.

Council has engaged a Policy Consultant, a Venue Liaison Consultant, and established a cross-Council working group. A Cairns Music Industry Working Group (CMIWG) has also been established.

Cairns Regional Council is developing a new Creative Life Strategy to replace the 2022 Strategy for Culture and Arts, which was aligned with the Corporate Plan 2017-2022. The new strategy is designed to address the needs of the community, creatives, businesses, and visitors, while aligning with the Council's Towards 2050: Shaping Cairns program.

Closely connected to the development of the new strategy, the Live and Local program focuses on expanding opportunities for the arts, culture, and the growth of creative industries within our region.

Cultural Planning plays an important role in decision making and guides the delivery of creative services.

• Current Strategy Culture and Arts 2022: On a page
• Cultural Strategies, policies and impact reports
• Economic Development: Arts and Culture Profile
• Economic Development Strategy 2022-2026
• Corporate Plan 2017-2022