NSW Government announces $815,827 in funding for Varuna

Media Release
2 February 2023

Varuna, The National Writer’s House — the foremost organisation for literature development in Australia — is thrilled to be the recipient of $815,827 in funding as part of the recent NSW Government WestInvest Community Project Grants announcement.

The funding will go towards the planning and construction of a new multi-purpose architect-designed building on the Varuna grounds. This building will provide an accessible venue, workshop, and office space as part of Varuna’s commitment to community engagement, diversity and inclusivity.

“Varuna is deeply grateful to the NSW state government for this much-needed funding. I cannot stress strongly enough that this new building is not just about bricks-and-mortar. It will enable Varuna to create a thriving cultural hub for workshops, literary events, writing groups and community programs. We’re really excited to offer everyone —no matter their age, ability or life experience — the opportunity to connect with the transformative power of the written word,” said Executive Director, Veechi Stuart.

Leveraging the presence of over 200 award-winning writers who visit Varuna each year, this project will transform the extraordinary cultural wealth of Varuna from being a residential asset enjoyed by relatively few, to being a place that all members of the community can enjoy. It sits alongside the successful Blue Mountains Writers Festival in marking the next exciting phase in Varuna’s contribution to a vibrant future for Australian literature.

“I was so thrilled to hear that Varuna has been successful in their application for WestInvest funding,” said Trish Doyle, State Member for the Blue Mountains. “Varuna is such an integral part of our community, attracting writers from all over the world to our beautiful Blue Mountains. This project will enable them to offer even greater accessibility to the Centre, supporting Varuna in their plans to engage more broadly with members of our community.”

WestInvest is a landmark $5 billion program to secure the best quality of life for families and to make communities in West and South-West Sydney even better places to live.