Investment in the arts works.

Australia has an arts and related industries with an $8 billion contribution to the the economy, a growing reputation as an innovative and creative nation. Australians enjoy and participate in the arts with 15.9 million attendances at performances a year.

AMPAG companies delivered in 2006 alone:

• More touring of Australian performing arts companies - 341 in 2006, compared to 257 in 1999.

• Capital city tours totalled 138, compared to 121 in 1999.

• Continued strong attendance - capital city paid attendance at 2.1 million with many more for free performances.

• New works - a massive increase in 2001 following the new funding model, with extra work from festival co-productions.

• 68 new works created in 2006, including new orchestral works.

• Strong education - companies reach at least 700,000 students every year.