Fair Work Commission Seeks to Add 'Arts' to Federal Award, Boosting Recognition for Arts Workers
On 14 August, the Fair Work Commission suggested changing the name of the Amusement, Events and Recreation Award 2020 to the Amusement, Recreation, Events and Arts Award (AREA) 2020, acknowledging arts-related work within an Australian federal modern award. This proposal comes after more than three years of efforts by the National Association for the Visual Arts (NAVA). While the modifications aim to enhance clarity regarding the award's scope for visual arts, they do not establish a separate award for this sector. On 17 August, NAVA Executive Director Penelope Benton expressed support for the decision, emphasizing the importance of clear pay and conditions, noting that many visual artists earn less than the minimum wage. NAVA plans to address the provisional views by 4 September 2026.
Key facts
- The Fair Work Commission provisionally decided to rename the Amusement, Events and Recreation Award 2020 to the Amusement, Recreation, Events and Arts Award (AREA) 2020.
- The decision was released on 14 August, following more than three years of advocacy by NAVA.
- The proposed changes would not create a standalone visual arts award but would broaden the existing award's coverage and classification structure.
- NAVA Executive Director Penelope Benton welcomed the decision as a significant achievement.
- The Fair Work Commission's Modern Awards Review 2023-24 found that the current classification structure does not adequately cover arts work.
- Artists working as sole traders or independent contractors may remain outside modern award protections.
- NAVA's submissions were made jointly with the Media, Entertainment & Arts Alliance and the Australian Museums and Galleries Association.
- NAVA will respond to the commission's provisional views by 4 September 2026.
Entities
Artists
- Penelope Benton
- Leya Reid
Institutions
- National Association for the Visual Arts (NAVA)
- Fair Work Commission
- Media, Entertainment & Arts Alliance
- Australian Museums and Galleries Association
Locations
- Australia