AU - The social and demographic characteristics of cultural attendees

Cultural Ministers Council Statistics Working Group

People choose to spend their leisure time in various ways. Some people's choices include visiting cultural venues, attending cultural events and participating in cultural activities. For example, people may choose to attend cinemas or the theatre, listen to music, read books, or visit a museum or library in person or on-line. Information about these choices, and also the choices of those who do not access arts and cultural heritage services, is important for policy makers and service providers. In addition to understanding the interests of consumers, it is important to research those who do not consume arts and cultural heritage services, and to understand why. For example, is distance a barrier for people in regional and remote areas? Are general admission fees or charges a barrier to access for some people, and is this a policy concern? The answers to these questions would inform policy and assist more effective targeting of services.