Overview

• Robert Morgan announced his retirement as chair of Creative Australia, following backlash over the decision to cancel the 2026 Venice Biennale commission for Khaled Sabsabi and Michael Dagostino.
• Wesley Enoch, a First Nations playwright and creative director, has been appointed acting chair as the organization undergoes a governance review.
• The February decision to withdraw Sabsabi and Dagostino's commission was prompted by concerns over an old video artwork by Sabsabi, leading to fears of divisive public debate.
• The arts sector has widely criticized the decision, with over 600 writers and academics signing an open letter condemning the board’s actions as a threat to artistic integrity.
• The leadership change has raised hopes for the reinstatement of Sabsabi and Dagostino, potentially salvaging Australia’s participation in the 2026 Venice Biennale.