Ballarat will welcome visitors from near and far in 2023 for the 10^th anniversary of the Ballarat International Foto Biennale with new support from the Andrews Labor Government.

Member for Wendouree Juliana Addison today announced that the Ballarat International Foto Biennale is a successful funding recipient from the Andrews Government’s $20 million Regional Events Fund.

The Ballarat International Foto Biennale will use the $100,000 grant from the Regional Events Fund to support strategic marketing for the event that will raise the profile of the Ballarat region as a culturally rich destination.

Starting in 2005, the Ballarat International Foto Biennale has enriched the cultural landscape of regional Victoria with its immersive photographic exhibitions staged in traditional gallery venues and unconventional presentations. The event has brought more than 180,000 visitors to the region to explore the city through engaging visual image making by internationally and nationally recognised photographic artists.

The Biennale extends its offering into local shops, cafes, restaurants and businesses through its Open Program of exhibitions showcasing emerging photographers and providing ample opportunity for visitors to enjoy wonderful experiences in Ballarat’s heritage streetscapes and surrounding charming villages.

The Andrews Labor Government is backing a jam-packed calendar of crowd-pleasing public events in regional and rural areas in 2022.

The $20 million Regional Events Fund is a critical component of the $633 million Visitor Economy Recovery and Reform Plan and supports festivals, sports events, creative exhibitions and other cultural celebrations.

The Regional Events Fund drives economic benefits to Victoria by increasing visitor numbers and length of stay, thereby boosting spending in regional areas and supporting local jobs.

Since 2016, the Government’s Regional Events Fund has funded more than 300 events across the state.

Quote attributable to Member for Wendouree Juliana Addison

“The Ballarat International Foto Biennale’s reputation as one of Australia’s greatest art festivals continues to grow. We’re supporting the Biennale through this $100,000 grant as well as our $6.7milion investment to establish the National Centre for Photography in Lydiard St.” 

“We look forward to welcoming regional, national and international artists and visitors to Ballarat for the 2023 Biennale.”

Quotes attributable to BIFB CEO Vanessa Gerrans

“The 10^th anniversary of the Ballarat International Foto Biennale will be a celebration of photography and visual imaging culture, including exciting world first premieres along with a reflection of contributors who have helped grow the festival into Australia’s most significant regional showcase of photographic works by artists from across the world.”

“Running from August to October in 2023, the 10^th anniversary of the Ballarat International Foto Biennale will be an exciting time to visit Ballarat as the city celebrates the art of photography. We acknowledge the support of the Andrews Labor Government through the Regional Events Fund.”