The extra funding is to help Adelaide Festival lock in more international acts as part of its program, to grow national and international visitors to the event.
The investment comes after this year’s festival prompted an estimated $57.6 million in direct expenditure, up from $51.8 million in 2022. The average spend of those visiting South Australia for the festival was up 47 per cent to $4,676.
“The Adelaide Festival has a stunning international reputation, and for decades, has been bringing visitors to our state from interstate and overseas,” said South Australia’s Premier, Peter Malinauskas.
“We’re serious about helping the festival continue to grow, find new audiences, and keep its edge over competing events elsewhere.
“Whether it is the Festival, the Fringe, major sporting events or conferences, my government is committed to investing in events which bring new visitors to our state, and helping those parts of our economy that suffered the most during COVID restrictions.”
This year the Adelaide Fringe Festival became the first festival in Australia to sell a million tickets in one year, while Adelaide’s other major ‘Mad March’ festival, WOMADelaide, also had a record-breaking year.
“Not only do our festivals capture our imagination, expose us to new ideas and bring people together to share new experiences but they have an incredible economic impact and draw people from around the world to our state,” said South Australia’s arts minister Andrea Michaels.
Adelaide Festival’s chair Judy Potter said the additional funding was “essential for Adelaide Festival to attract major works to our state”.
“The support plays a significant role in delivering a successful and impactful festival, driving positive economic outcomes and fostering cultural enrichment and growth.”
