In 2023, the Department of Local Government, Sport and Cultural Industries rejected Propel application for ongoing operational funding. While the Department of Local Government Sport and the Creative Industries granted a project funding boost in 2024, it wasn’t enough to make up for the absence of core funding nor the increased costs of operating over the last few years.

We tried reducing project scopes, cancelling events and seeking alternate funding streams to remain viable. But despite those efforts, the absence of core funding and the unwillingness of the WA Government to adequately resource Propel has left the Board with no option but to close down the organisation.

It’s an understatement to say we feel this loss deeply.

It has been 22 years’ worth of festivals, mentorship and creative ambition. Since its founding in 2003, we have supported 500,000 of you through our key programs: KickstART Festival, the Drug Aware YCulture Metro arts grant, the emerging producer platform PIVOT, the regional touring Sketchbook program and touring exhibition, and plenty more projects and long-running programs.

We send a heartfelt thank you to our exceptionally talented and dedicated staff and volunteers over the years, led by Executive Director Jamie McGleave.

Most importantly, we’re immensely grateful to YOU - our supporters, volunteers and advocates, for whom being a part of the arts as a young person, or supporting young people to engage, is a vital part of being a West Australian.

Creative, connected, and courageous young people are the future of this beautiful state. Keep making art and be good to each other.