Queensland Library Transfers Awards Management

0:00This is Corey, keeping Sydney in the know, you're listening to Sydney News today. Queensland State Libraries handing over management of the State Literary Awards to other providers. This comes after a government review sparked by last year's cancellation of a $15,000 Black and White Fellowship for First Nations author. Arts Minister John Paul Langbrooke stepped in and halted the award over the author's social media post that he said glorified terrorism by praising a Hamas leader. The controversy led to 12 judges resigning from the awards, causing major delays. It also prompted an independent review by former Supreme Court judge Martin Dobny, delivered late last year and made public this week. Both the Library and the Minister have fully accepted all five recommendations from the 57-page report. Reactions highlighted tensions over free speech and government oversight in the arts. The review noted ambiguities and whether running competitive awards is a core library function. Along with outdated policies on venue use and intellectual freedom.

1:04Official stress the need for better communication between the Library Board, the Minister, and the Arts Department. Key findings call for clearer policies on awards and fellowships, including objectives and risk management to avoid reputational harm. Recommendations include background checks for entrance and venue users, plus pledges that recipients won't engage in behavior bringing disrepute to. The programs or library. The library will work with funding partner Creative Australia to transition the black and write fellowship to. Former Liberal Senator George Brandes is now chair of the Library Board. The government says it's committed to strengthening the awards while ensuring state venues reject hate speech. This episode is supported by our sponsor. See details in the description. Headphones in a pillow. Simple idea, surprisingly addictive. Go L.I. Go L.I.