Buy art from local artists and attend local performances. Instead of choosing an international act at a festival why not choose a local one? Commission an artwork from an artist in your community. Pay for music by local bands instead of streaming for free.

Donate to a local arts charity. Did you know that donations to most arts organisations are tax deductible? Individual artists and non-incorporated groups can also be donated to through The Australian Cultural Fund. In the Illawarra Culture Bank supports local artists to realise their projects.

Purchase merchandise from your favourite artist / arts organisation. For birthdays and Christmas presents give a gift to the arts as well as the present recipient by purchasing clothing, prints, vinyl and other merchandise from your favourite artist / organisation. You’ll often get bang for your buck too as the merchandise is often designed by artists too and looks way better than off the shelf stuff!

Vote for the arts. Consider the arts when you vote. Not all arts policies are created equal when it comes to actually helping artists do what they have trained to do.

Interact with artists’ socials. Like and share artists’ work and upcoming performances / exhibitions. Talk about what you’ve seen, what you’d like to see.

Hire artists and pay them for their work. Artists are not interested in working for exposure. If you are in a position to hire and artist to play at your party, perform at your restaurant opening, paint a mural in your bedroom etc. pay them!

Purchase membership / subscribe to a local arts institution. Galleries and other arts organisations often have membership packages you can purchase for insider deals, openings and special events - often with drinks and canapés provided! It’s a cheap option for a social outing where you can meet likeminded arts supporters and help artists at the same time. WIN WIN!