Penny Wong (SA, Australian Labor Party, Minister for Climate Change and Water) Share this | Hansard source

Thank you to Senator Milne for the question. First, in relation to the ANAM, the Australian government has made it clear—Minister Garrett has made it clear—that funding for this training will not be reduced, that $2½ million will be provided annually for a revitalised program to be delivered through the university’s faculty. I also want to note, in the context of the question, that Minister Garrett has announced an additional $500,000 in 2008-09 to boost the level of performance training available to students as they move to the new program. In relation to Mr Dean—and I share with Senator Milne congratulations to Mr Dean for this award—I do understand that Minister Garrett met with the artistic director and ANAM students earlier today. I am advised that it was a constructive and fruitful meeting. I am also advised that Minister Garrett will continue to engage with both Mr Dean and also the University of Melbourne as this change to government funding arrangements is progressed.