Sydney Festival Revenue Guidelines and Principles

In the pursuit of its ambitious annual program, Sydney Festival relies not only on operational revenue generated from ticket sales, catering and merchandising but also on the support of diverse funding sources. These vital sources include public funding, corporate sponsorship and philanthropic fundraising. These essential activities are guided by three overarching policies:

1. Public Funding Policy

2. Corporate Sponsorship Policy

3. Philanthropic Fundraising Policy

These policies collectively ensure that Sydney Festival's public funding, sponsorship and fundraising endeavours are in harmony with its core mission, values and ethical principles. They also prioritise transparency, accountability and the positive impact on the community.

In summary, the key principles of these policies include:

Public Funding Policy

Introduction: This policy outlines ethical principles for seeking and using public funding aligned with Sydney Festival's mission.

Principles and Objectives: Ethical practices and impact are key, with a commitment to transparency and accountability.

Guidelines for Seeking Public Funding: Public funding aligns with mission, values and guidelines. Limited to Australian governments and affiliated agencies.

Responsible Utilisation of Public Funds: Public funds used as agreed. Financial management is transparent and compliant.

Transparency and Accountability: Open communication with funders, stakeholders and the public. Regular reporting on fund utilisation.

Public Funding Recognition: Recognition is proportionate, separate from corporate sponsorships. Editorial control retained.

Avoiding Conflicts of Interest: Transparently manage conflicts of interest related to public funds.

Ethical Conduct: Adherence to ethical conduct in seeking and utilising public funds.

Accountability for Outcomes: Regular evaluation and improvement to ensure positive outcomes.

Corporate Sponsorship 

Introduction: This policy establishes principles and ethical standards for sponsorship activities by Sydney Festival to align with its mission and create positive outcomes.

Principles and Objectives: Sponsorships should enhance activities, align with values and uphold integrity. Positive revenue streams and reputation are essential.

Guidelines for Partnership, Sponsorship and Fundraising: Thorough reviews ensure alignment with principles. Opportunities should align with missions, values and strategies.

Review Process: Potential partners undergo transparent review based on ethical guidelines and alignment with values.

Review Criteria, Screens and Restrictions: Organisational alignment, qualitative criteria and exclusionary screens are used for evaluation. Recent performance and positive change are considered.

Criteria for Declining Sponsorships: Activities that contradict principles or misalign with values won't be pursued.

Agreement Process: Written agreements define roles, benefits, obligations and confidentiality.

Sponsor Recognition, Editorial Control, Exclusivity: Recognition and acknowledgment are proportional. Editorial control is retained. Exclusivity terms are based on support level.

Fundraising and Ethical Standards: Ethical fundraising practices are upheld, transparent, truthful and respectful.

Ethical Fundraising Procedures: Board oversees policies, approvals and financial risk assessment. Complaints are investigated transparently.

Philanthropic Fundraising Policy

Introduction: Ethical fundraising practices for the Board, staff and volunteers. Ensures ethical and responsible solicitation and management of funds.

Purpose: Outlines ethical fundraising practices and guidelines for solicitation and management of funds.

Policy: Upholds ethical practices, adherence to laws, diversity, truthfulness and respect for beneficiaries.

Responsibilities: Board oversees and reviews policy implementation.

Processes: Fundraising Sub-Committee ensures oversight. Approvals documented. Financial risks assessed. Complaints investigated.