Sinsa Mansell appointed to Arts Minister Tony Burke’s expert advisory panel on national cultural policy

A Tasmanian Aboriginal woman has been appointed to a high-powered expert panel set to shape important policy outcomes over the course of the next decade.

A leading figure in Tasmania’s arts scene has been appointed to a powerful expert panel tasked with shaping the future of cultural policy in Australia.

Trawlwoolway woman Sinsa Mansell, a creative producer and co-founder of Aboriginal dance troupe pakana kanaplila, is one of three people on the panel, which will provide advice to federal Arts Minister Tony Burke on the strategic direction of the Albanese government’s new national cultural policy.

Passionate about reclaiming and preserving ancient cultural practices, Ms Mansell said it was an “absolute honour” to be appointed to the position.

Sinsa Mansell. Picture: RICHARD JUPE

“Arts and culture is my life - it’s not just my passion and my practice but it’s predominantly my career,” Ms Mansell, who is based in Hobart, said.

“I take this (role) extremely seriously. And I would like just to reassure my colleagues that they’re in safe hands and I will be extremely transparent and direct in my advice … to the minister.”

Consultation is under way on the national cultural policy, which will serve as a road map for the arts, entertainment and cultural sector over the next decade.

Five lower-level review panels will assess the public submissions, before the expert advisory panel takes a “holistic” view of their “key elements and concerns”, Ms Mansell said.

Mr Burke said Tasmania was the first place he visited as part of the consultation process.

Arts Minister Tony Burke. Picture Kym Smith

“The discussion I had with Tasmanian artists in Hobart in July was incredibly influential to my thinking,” he said.

The minister described Ms Mansell as an “incredibly talented woman and a terrific ambassador for Tasmanian art”.

The remaining members of the expert advisory panel are expected to be announced next week.

To make a written submission to the national cultural policy, visit arts.gov.au/have-your-say/new-national-cultural-policy.

Submissions close on August 22.

Follow @rg_inglis