Australia's first national survey into working conditions in the creative industries launches

Creative Workplaces has today launched the Creative Workplaces Survey, a landmark national research project designed to build the first comprehensive picture of working conditions across Australia’s creative industries.

The survey will explore key workplace issues including pay and working conditions, safety at work, bullying, discrimination and harassment. It is open to anyone aged 18 or over who lives in Australia for tax purposes and works in the creative industries.

“There is currently no comprehensive national data on the lived experience of people working across Australia’s creative industries,” said Kate Jenkins AO, Chair Creative Workplaces. “This survey gives us the first opportunity to build a truly national picture of what it’s like to work in Australia’s creative industries, and the findings will help drive real, lasting change where it’s needed most.”

Creative Workplaces hopes to hear from thousands of people across the country, including those in artistic, technical, administrative, and support roles in music, screen, visual arts, performing arts, literature, games, festivals and other creative disciplines.

The survey is anonymous and confidential and includes a short eligibility check followed by a 40-minute questionnaire that participants can complete at their own pace.

Minister for the Arts, Tony Burke, said “Arts workers aren’t hobbyists. They’re doing real work in real workplaces. I want them to be paid and to be safe.”

Findings from the survey will inform future policies, guidance and training initiatives to improve standards and safety across the arts and culture sector. Creative Workplaces will release a detailed report in June 2026.

“This survey is for everyone — from independent artists and freelancers, to crew, administrators, producers and volunteers,” said Kate Schaffner, Director, Creative Workplaces. “Every experience matters. By sharing your experience, you’re helping shine a light on what is and isn’t working in creative workplaces, so together we can build a stronger, safer and more sustainable future for creative work.”

Take the survey: creativeworkplaces.gov.au/survey