Research shows strong growth for sector from 2008–09 to 2023–24.

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Research by the Bureau of Communications, Arts and Regional Research (BCARR) has, for the first time, undertaken a detailed analysis of Australia's cultural and creative employment, showing a sector that has been resilient over more than a decade.

This report provides interim estimates using a refreshed methodology for measuring cultural and creative employment from 2008–09 to 2023–24, aligning with the objectives set out in the National Cultural Policy—Revive.

After completing Phase 1 of the Cultural and Creative Account Methodology Refresh, which quantified the direct economic contribution of cultural and creative activity, Phase 2 now shifts attention to the workforce conducting these activities.

The occupations captured in the phase 2 research aim to align with the cultural and cultural activities examined in phase 1, providing a strong reference point for policy makers and industry.

Understanding the cultural and creative workforce helps inform policies for sustainable careers, equity, and sector growth. These insights guide funding, workforce development, and collaboration to ensure Australia's talent is recognised and supported.

Some key findings include:

  • An estimated 591,302 people were employed in a cultural and creative industry or occupation as their main job in 2023–24, an increase of 7.1% from 2022–23.
  • As a share of total employment, this sector (4.1%) is comparable in size to the transport, postal and warehousing (4.6%), and wholesale trade (3.8%).
  • In 2023–24, the most prominent domains of cultural and creative employment were architecture services, advertising and promotion, and visual arts and crafts.

This is an interim report which provides preliminary workforce estimates while Australia moves to a new occupational classification framework. A final report, incorporating updated occupational classifications, is expected to be delivered in 2027–28.

For a copy of the report visit www.infrastructure.gov.au/cultural-and-creative-workforce.