Public spaces across Sunbury, and the wider Hume region, could soon feature more murals, sculptures, digital installations and even performance art, following Hume City Council’s re-adoption of its Art in Public Places Policy on Tuesday 10 June.
The refreshed policy for 2025 – costing ratepayers at least $85,000-a-year – aims is to strengthen council’s commitment to placing public art throughout the city, and emphasise art as a tool for “community connection, cultural expression, and placemaking”.
Additional public art projects beyond the scope of the annual budget would be referred to the appropriate budget process for council’s consideration.
According to the policy, priority sites for future public artworks include civic spaces, tourism precincts, and entry points into the municipality – such as gateway roads into Sunbury. Council will also target areas experiencing repeated graffiti or antisocial behaviour as potential locations for revitalisation through art.
Artworks may range from temporary projections and performance-based installations to long-term structures designed to last up to 20 years. Sustainability is also key: artists will be encouraged to use recycled materials and explore renewable energy technologies like solar lighting or kinetic elements.
Importantly, the policy outlines new requirements for collaboration with traditional owners when projects intersect with Aboriginal heritage or sites of cultural significance. Any artworks that incorporate First Nations stories or symbolism must follow cultural protocols set by bodies such as the Wurundjeri Woi Wurrung Cultural Heritage Aboriginal Corporation.
Sunbury artists may also benefit from increased professional opportunities. Council plans to prioritise local creatives for commissions and support mentoring programs where experienced artists guide emerging talent.
Art projects will be funded through council’s annual capital works budget, with additional grants and developer contributions to support larger initiatives. Each project will include community consultation, with local input shaping the artwork’s design and intent.
Residents are encouraged to stay engaged via public forums and updates as new works are planned and installed throughout Sunbury in the coming years.
Got an art idea for your neighbourhood? Let us know at [email protected]
