Diversity Arts Australia

Who we are

DARTS is led by culturally and linguistically diverse (CALD) artists and cultural workers. Our work is grounded in the theory and practice of cultural studies that engage critical ideas of representation, cultural rights, integrity and autonomy. We work intersectionally with artists, groups, communities and organisations of diverse abilities, sexualities, genders, ages, languages and socioeconomic status, recognising that ethno-cultural diversity cannot be viewed in isolation from other systemic barriers to access and participation.

What we do

Diversity Arts Australia (DARTS) is the national voice for ethno-cultural and migrant racial equity in the arts, cultural and creative industries.

Our work is underpinned by a human-rights ethic, social justice principles, and the belief that a truly diverse spectrum of creative expression and participation is fundamental to a democratic, inclusive and sustainable creative sector, and society.

Informed by our organisational values of: Inclusion, Diversity, Collaboration, Participation and Self-Determination, DARTS advocates for and actively works towards an arts sector that reflects the complex diversity of the Australian population on our screens and stages; in our audiences, our galleries and books; and within boards, committees, and positions of leadership into the future. We support the creative sector to develop practical and strategic ways to influence the stories and cultural landscape of contemporary Australia.

Our core areas of activity are:

1. Advocacy: We advocate for greater diversity through producing research, campaigns, symposia and strategic initiatives.
2. Research: Developing an evidence base that measures and tracks diversity
3. Brokering connections: Building strategic partnerships across the creative landscape in Australia
4. Knowledge exchange: Creating content and establishing platforms for sharing Australian and International resources and knowledge, like the Creative Equity Toolkit
5. Projects: Designing and implementing strategic projects that influence sector change and position artists as advocates