Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has stepped in with a $1.5 million package to support the Sculpture by the Sea exhibition in Cottesloe, aiming to ensure the event's continuation for the next two years. Despite the funding pledge, the event's founding CEO, David Handley, conveyed that the lack of assistance from the Arts agency Creative Australia had already led him to cancel the event for 2025.
Handley emphasized the need for financial support earlier to guarantee the event's feasibility, as most artists had yet to begin their sculptures for the exhibition. He acknowledged the relief brought by the government's funding but pointed out that it might not be adequate to salvage the event for the upcoming year. Expressing gratitude towards the people of Perth and the local media for rallying behind Sculpture by the Sea, Handley highlighted the importance of statewide support for the event's success.
The announcement of government funding was met with mixed reactions, with Prime Minister Albanese expressing hope that the immediate financial assistance would facilitate the event taking place next year. However, WA Liberal Senator Michaelia Cash criticized Albanese's government, accusing them of neglecting the event's funding needs and highlighting the Coalition's past support for the exhibition during their time in office. Despite the political back-and-forth, Handley remains optimistic, anticipating bipartisan backing going forward and expressing relief that the event will continue in 2026.