The Australian Design Centre (ADC) has announced it will cease operations by 30 June 2026 unless urgent alternative funding is secured, marking the potential end of a 61-year legacy supporting Australia's craft and design community.
The decision follows confirmation that both the Federal Government (through Creative Australia) and the NSW Government (through Create NSW) will discontinue adequate operational funding from the 2025-26 financial year. Create NSW recently awarded ADC $150,000 per year for two years-a figure $350,000 short of the minimum $500,000 annual base required to sustain operations.
ADC board chair Elizabeth Espinosa said the volunteer board had "considered all other options" but could not see a viable path forward without renewed funding.
"Without core operational support to pay staff and cover administrative costs, we have no other choice but to cease operations by 30 June," she said. "This means that NSW will be the only state or territory in Australia without an organisation dedicated to craft and design practice."
The closure would have widespread repercussions for artists and audiences. ADC currently provides opportunities for around 1,000 artists each year, and its exhibitions attract up to 350,000 visitors annually. Exhibition programming in Sydney will end in February 2026, followed by the closure of the Object Shop in March 2026. Touring exhibitions will continue as scheduled until mid-2026.
ADC CEO and artistic director Lisa Cahill described the decision as "devastating," highlighting a lack of transparency in recent funding decisions.
"Despite being recommended for funding by peer assessors, ADC no longer receives four-year funding from state and federal agencies. Clearly, craft and design are not a priority," she said.
Founded in 1964, ADC has long been a vital platform for contemporary makers and designers, supported by the City of Sydney through its gallery space on William Street and by private philanthropy.
The board is now appealing for $350,000 per year in additional funding from government, corporate or private sources to keep ADC open beyond 2026. Enquiries or offers of support can be directed to Lisa Cahill at (02) 9361 4555 or lisa@australiandesigncentre.com
