Arts Management – LARSEN

Have your say on the new national Cultural Policy consultation

The Australian Government is calling for public submissions to inform it’s update of the Revive National Cultural Policy.

And another thing: Company Secretaries vs company secretariats

Boards, have you delegated your Company Secretary responsibilities to a member of staff? Or are you a staff Company Secretary who’s had that work thrust upon them – without understanding the responsibilities or risks?

The landmark Star Entertainment lawsuit has put Company Secretaries into the spotlight this month – and sent a lot of organisations into a panic as a result. But most arts, cultural and non-profit organisations should be alert, but not alarmed.

And another thing: on the violence of governance

Arts boards, I move that we stop moving motions. Because our unnecessary and ineffective governance procedures are doing more harm than good.

Raining on the parade of Generative AI in the arts

The Victorian Government released its updated cultural policy, Creative State 2028, at the end of last year. But I won’t be surprised if you missed it.

And another thing: on getting better at endings

This month’s ‘and another thing’ vlog is about endings, and the difference between knowing when it’s time for something to end, and the types of endings that are outside our control. Because, let’s be honest, our sector isn’t great at either.

And another thing: issues with appointed boards

My first ‘and another thing’ vlog for the year is inspired by the Adelaide Festival and the need to talk about Ministerially-appointed boards.

And another thing: self-care isn’t (always) selfish

As much of our sector prepares for an end-of-year-break, I wanted to share the end of year public service announcement that: self-care isn’t selfish, taking time off isn’t selfish, rest isn’t selfish. In fact, doing #LessIsNecessary.

And another thing: should board members get paid?

This month’s ‘and another thing’ vlog’ is on the tricky issue of board remuneration – or whether board or committee members are or should get paid for their role governing arts, cultural and for-purpose organisations.

Writers festival reflections

Any day I get paid be a writer is a good day. So I was delighted to book four writers festival events for the 2025 season – which I am now half-way through.

And another thing: strategic venting and collegiality as care

Inspired by SACSA’s workforce Plan Updates for the Australian Arts sector, I’ve been thinking about the importance of strategic venting and collegiality as care – two common-sense strategies we’ve all seemed to lose the knack of in recent years.