Letter: Meaning vs Mining
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klwardMeaning v mining
In the wake of the Sydney Writers Festival, I find myself wondering what the difference is between the Australian mining industry and the Australian meaning industry, otherwise known as the arts? Both undertake the excavation of raw materials from deep below the surface. It is difficult and sometimes dangerous work, requiring highly trained technicians with specific skills. These materials are then refined, making them useful to our society. The infrastructure and products of both these industries affect every individual in this country, and those we export to, every day of their lives.
The difference appears to be that the current Australian government is willing to protect and support one through the challenges of globalisation and new technologies, but not the other. Is this because creativity is a renewable resource?
Kyla Lee Ward Sutherland