NSW Premier Rejects Calls To Cut Funding After Biennale Controversy

The premier of New South Wales, Chris Minns, has condemned controversial remarks made by a performer during the opening night of the Sydney Biennale.

However, he has ruled out withdrawing government funding from the event despite criticism from Jewish organisations.

Controversial performance sparks backlash

The controversy centres on comments made by US-based artist Zubeyda Muzeyyen during a performance at White Bay Power Station.

During the show, the artist used language that critics say referenced antisemitic conspiracy tropes.

The performance also included chants linked to pro-Palestinian activism and criticism of the war in Gaza.

Premier condemns remarks

Minns described the comments as “horrid rhetoric” and said they were distressing to members of the Jewish community.

Despite the criticism, he rejected calls for the state government to cut financial support for the Biennale.

Minns said threatening to withdraw arts funding could have the opposite effect by giving controversial statements even more attention.

Calls for accountability

The NSW Jewish Board of Deputies criticised the remarks and said the festival’s organisers needed to answer serious questions about how the performance was allowed.

Its president David Ossip described the comments as antisemitic and unacceptable at a publicly funded cultural event.

Meanwhile Alex Ryvchin also criticised the performance.

Festival launches review

The Biennale organisers confirmed they have begun an internal review into the statements made during the performance.

Officials said the festival expects all public discourse on its platforms to comply with its code of conduct and remain lawful.

The festival receives substantial public funding from government sources.

According to recent reports, more than 50% of its funding comes from federal, state and local government grants, including over $3 million in public funding in 2024.

Ongoing debate over arts and free expression

The incident has reignited debate about how publicly funded arts organisations should balance creative freedom, political expression and community standards.

Government officials say they expect cultural institutions receiving public funding to ensure their events remain inclusive and respectful to all communities.