After the devastating Victorian fires over the Summer of 2019/2020, Regional Arts Victoria received funding from Creative Victoria and Bushfire Recovery Victoria, to undertake creative recovery activities. The Creative Recovery Program (2020/2021) had a three-pronged approach that addressed the essential principles of community rebuilding in disaster recovery; a response grants program, community capability building and training, and on the ground advocacy and advice giving.
Creative Recovery Small Grants Program
RAV delivered a quick response grant with a speedy turnaround and a simple application process that was targeted specifically impacted regions. Grants of up to $5,000 were awarded to enable small projects to be activated or allow artists to replace equipment and tools required for them to return to their creative practice.
Application support was made available by the Creative Recovery Coordinators located in East Gippsland and the North East.
Creative Recovery Network Training Retreats
This preparedness program involved upskilling the local creative workforce in Creative Recovery training. The three day immersive training programs, facilitated by the Creative Recovery Network, were rolled out in the Northeast and East Gippsland.
It aimed to provide practitioners and community leaders with the skills, knowledge and practical experience to facilitate groups and embed trauma informed care practices in their workshop delivery.
On The Ground Support
On the ground Creative Recovery Coordinators were employed in the Northeast and East Gippsland communities. This enabled communities to easily access creative support and guidance, assisting them to be empowered to lead their own recovery.
Outcomes
- The arts are integrated into and valued as part of broader community recovery efforts.
- Local artists and arts workers have increased knowledge, skills and confidence to respond to communities in recovery.