Market Development commissioned Justin McDonnell (Anzarts) in late 2010 to write the APAM scoping study. The scoping study aims to inform future directions and priorities for APAM.

Specific objectives include:

• To evaluate the relevance and appropriateness of the current APAM model

• To make recommendations around future strategic directions for APAM.

The scoping study includes wide and targeted consultation with a variety of stakeholders from government to international presenters and local arts organizations, producers and peak or other advocacy bodies. The Australia Council would like to thank those who contributed their time and insight into the research driving Justin Macdonnell’s report.

NEXT STEPS

• Many of the report’s recommendations are incorporated into plans for APAM 2012.

• The Market Development team has prepared a Tender schedule. The call for tender will occur end May 2011 with the outcome publicly announced at APAM 2012.

• Discussion with key sector representation will inform tender inclusions.

APAM was established by the Australia Council for the Arts in 1994 to “increase international and national touring opportunities for Australian contemporary performing arts groups and artists” (Australia Council Audience and Market Development Division 2002).

Nine markets have been held to date – the first (1994) and second (1996) were held in Canberra in conjunction with the National Festival of Australian Theatre. Since 1998 APAM has been held in Adelaide in conjunction with the Adelaide Festival and Adelaide Fringe Festival. The current contract for APAM, held by the South Australian Government (through Arts South Australia) and produced by Arts Projects Australia (APA) since 1998 expires following APAM 2012.