The Arts and Culture Employment Study is a survey conducted to help the National Arts Council better understand employment conditions within the arts sector. 937 respondents across six art forms were asked questions about working conditions, income, career satisfaction, job security and employability, career motivations, training and development needs.
Findings from face-to-face interviews
58% of arts workers surveyed had an undergraduate or post-graduate degree, compared to 32% nationally. 73% of arts workers survey also had an arts-related qualification. Passion was the most critical factor for drawing workers to the sector. 78% said the top reason for entering the arts was it was their passion or interest, which was also the top reason for staying in the arts.
- 75% are very satisfied with a career in the arts and 98% do not intend to leave the arts sector.
- 41% have held multiple jobs within the arts and 36% held one arts-related job.
- Arts workers are motivated to develop themselves professionally. 62% of respondents pursue training to deepen their knowledge and gain specialised skills.
- The median gross annual income for the arts workers surveyed is $42,000, below the national median gross annual income of $47,388.
Dec 2020
