No, through this policy, we reinforce our commitment not to censor artists or their creative expression. Through this draft policy, we fully support the right to freedom of artistic expression, as recognised by the United Nations Human Rights Council.

The draft policy provides a framework to ensure we can deliver an engaging and dynamic program of exhibitions. We strive to invite new ways of thinking and present diverse perspectives to our community.

We follow legal requirements and community standards when selecting exhibitions and artworks. This draft policy provides clear boundaries that we won’t present artworks that risk breaching common laws or criminal legislation and that don’t meet community standards.

The policy upholds the right to artistic freedom as outlined by the United Nations. It ensures no censorship is applied unless artworks risk breaching laws or community standards.

No, the draft Exhibition Policy will not change eligible artists ability to apply for or participate in the Town Hall Gallery Community Exhibitions Program.

The draft policy provides a framework for how we manage our overall exhibition program, including major exhibitions, displays in various buildings as well as the Community Exhibitions program.

We’ve outlined a clear process in the draft policy that our curatorial staff would use to consider potentially sensitive or controversial artworks. This is Appendix 1, page 14 in the draft policy. This proposed process includes risk assessment and would also involve other actions when required, including reviews by senior management or seeking input from the Boroondara Arts Advisory Committee.

This draft policy outlines a clear and respectful process for managing artworks that may be considered sensitive or controversial. The process detailed in this policy doesn’t guarantee the direct involvement of the artist in every decision. However, our curatorial staff may contact artists as part of this process, particularly to clarify or collaborate if required to decide what actions to take. We’re committed to respectful communication throughout.

Potentially sensitive artwork can emerge when preparing exhibitions, while artworks are on display or when we receive community feedback. In these cases, our policy outlines the proposed process our curatorial staff will follow to complete a risk assessment. As part of this they will consider the artwork’s content, context and audience and the potential impact to our community.

When we consulted to develop the Boroondara Community Plan 2021-31, our community told us increasing opportunities for people to participate in artistic and cultural programming is important to them.

In the 2024-25 financial year, we invested $3.9 million on arts and cultural services and events for our community. This investment includes year-round delivery of Boroondara Arts events and programs including:

• music and performance programs such as the Boroondara Eisteddfod, Summer in the Park and Kew Court House Live
• visual art exhibitions and related events at Town Hall Gallery.