Arts (Statutory Bodies) and Other Legislation Amendment Bill 2024

Overview

This bill would have strengthened First Nations recognition across Queensland's five major arts institutions - the Art Gallery, Museum, State Library, QPAC, and Queensland Theatre. It required each board to include at least two Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander members and created dedicated First Nations Committees to guide cultural governance. The bill lapsed and did not become law.

Who it affects

Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities would have gained formal representation and self-determination in how Queensland's major arts bodies engage with First Nations culture and stories. Board members faced new criminal history and disclosure requirements.

Key changes

• Required at least 2 Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander members on each arts body board
• Created First Nations Committees for each institution to provide cultural governance advice
• Embedded truth-telling and ethical art principles in legislation
• Introduced criminal history checks and new disqualification rules for board members
• Required strategic plans to include First Nations initiatives
• Added ticket scalping restrictions for QPAC events