A devastating blow to Australian design
The announcement that the Australian Design Centre (ADC) will cease operations by 30 June 2026 marks a seismic loss for the nation’s creative ecosystem.
After more than six decades fostering Australian craft and design, the organisation’s future has been cut short by the withdrawal of core operational funding from both Creative Australia (Federal) and Create NSW (State).
“The ADC has supported the Authentic Design Alliance (ADA) as an affiliate partner, hosting multiple ADA events over the past decade.
Closure is a significant cultural oversight, one that deprives NSW of a Craft and Design body, an essential support for the creative sector.”
Anne-Maree Sargeant, Authentic Design Alliance
Funding shortfall and impact
- ADC requires a minimum $500,000 per annum to operate.
- Create NSW has committed $150,000 per year for two years, leaving a $350,000 annual shortfall.
- Without this funding, ADC can no longer sustain staffing and operations.
The consequences are stark:
- Opportunities for nearly 1,000 creatives each year will vanish.
- More than 350,000 visitors annually will lose access to exhibitions that champion contemporary making and design.
- Exhibitions at ADC in Sydney will end in February 2026.
- Object Shop will close by March 2026.
- Sydney Craft Week Festival and ADC On Tour will face uncertain futures beyond mid-2026.
A 61-year legacy at risk
Since 1964, ADC has been a cornerstone of Australian design culture—supporting makers, launching careers, and shaping national conversations about craft, innovation, and sustainability.
Under the leadership of Lisa Cahill, the Centre has built partnerships, toured exhibitions across the country, and generated vital opportunities for designers at all career stages.
“Without core operational support to pay staff and cover administrative costs, we have no other choice but to cease operations by 30 June.
A closure would leave NSW as the only state or territory in Australia without an organisation dedicated to craft and design practice.”
Elizabeth Espinosa, ADC Chair
The ADA supports an urgent call to action
ADC needs $350,000 per annum for the next two years from government, corporate, or private sources to survive beyond 2026.
Those able to help can contact:
Lisa Cahill, Executive Director (CEO & Artistic Director)
📞 (02) 9361 4555 ✉️ lisa@australiandesigncentre.com
SIGN THE PETITION – here
Why it matters
For decades, ADC has amplified Australia’s design identity through exhibitions, education, and advocacy. Its closure would erode one of the few platforms connecting makers with audiences nationally and globally.
This is more than a funding shortfall — it is a cultural reckoning. Without decisive action, NSW will stand as the only state in Australia without a dedicated design and craft institution.
Further reading:
- Australian Design Centre official statement
- ArtsHub coverage
- Sydney Morning Herald: “Feels like my heart’s been ripped out”
- Architectureau article
