The State Labor Government has announced a funding package of $780,000 to facilitate the reopening of the Tandanya National Aboriginal Cultural Institute. This development follows a series of investments geared towards the enhancement of facilities and the support of First Nations arts and culture in South Australia.
Tandanya, which has been a pivotal institution in our for over three decades, has been instrumental in the promotion and celebration of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander art and culture. The facility required significant maintenance and repair, to the extent that health and safety issues were a concern, leading to the closure. Owned by the Aboriginal Lands Trust and operated as a leaseholder, the institute has partnered with the State Government to identify and implement the necessary building improvements.
The funding will cover a range of essential upgrades scheduled to enable the institute’s functioning by January 2025. Expected works include replacing air conditioners, replacing sprinkler heads for fire safety, improving deteriorated internal walls and doors, electrical work, wall painting and carpet replacement.
This financial commitment builds on past support in 2023 which amounted to $90,000. These funds were allocated to critical safety updates including the overhaul of the fire panel and warning system, repair of fire doors, and the replacement of exit and emergency lights.
“Tandanya has long stood as the dedicated space for cultural works and artistic expression of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples within South Australia,” stated Kyam Maher, Minister for Aboriginal Affairs. “I look forward to Tandanya reopening its doors, welcoming visitors and continuing its rich history of showcasing the works of many talented Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander artists.”
The State Government’s dedication extends beyond immediate infrastructural needs, manifesting through strategic investments and funding support. The South Australian Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders Arts Strategy, initiated in early 2022, has already directed approximately $600,000 to various projects. Additionally, in the fiscal year 2023/24, around $1.2 million was invested in supporting artists and organisations, coupled with annual operational funding for Tandanya.
Andrea Michaels, Minister for Arts said, “Tandanya is an important part of South Australia’s arts community and we have been working closely with them to secure its reopening. We are committed to supporting First Nations artists and creatives and it’s wonderful that Tandanya will continue to be a dedicated space for Aboriginal artists for generations to come.”
Lee-Ann Tjunypa Buckskin, CEO of Tandanya Arts Program said, “Tandanya’s Board of Directors and executive team have been working closely with the State Government to address critical infrastructure issues impacting the building being reopened to the public.” The financial boost, according to Buckskin, is instrumental in addressing the immediate maintenance needs essential for January 2025’s program delivery.
Anticipated to reclaim its role as a central hub for Indigenous cultural expression and engagement, Tandanya’s restoration is poised to enrich Adelaide’s cultural landscape profoundly.
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