George Brandis (Queensland, Liberal Party, Attorney-General) Share this | Hansard source

Well, Senator Collins, as is the case with most budget decisions, in fact the normal and orthodox practice, the body concerned was advised on the day of the budget; in fact, in this particular case late on the afternoon of the budget. In relation to the question of how many arts organisations will lose funding, more arts organisations will have the opportunity for funding through the National Program for Excellence in the Arts If you knew anything about this sector, Senator Collins, which you plainly do not, you would know that the constant complaint that I have heard as the arts minister now in two Australian governments are complaints about people who feel shut out from the Australia Council process. They have constantly said to me, 'We need an alternative funding channel,' and that is what we have given them.