The Productivity Commission has been asked to examine the value, nature and structure of the markets for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander visual arts and crafts (the terms of reference are at attachment A). They will look at everything from original fine art to household items, clothing and tourist souvenirs that use Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander images. However, performing and literary arts are outside the scope of the study.

The Commission has also been asked to consider problems in visual arts and crafts markets — such as the proliferation of inauthentic arts and crafts and the unethical treatment of artists — and make recommendations for governments to address them.

This paper sets out the initial understanding of the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander visual arts and crafts markets and asks questions the Commission would like participants’ views on. Participants do not need to answer all our questions, and can focus on any relevant issues, regardless of whether a specific question has been asked. More information on how participants can engage with the Commission in this study is outlined in section 9.