In news that will disappoint the Australian dance sector, Ausdance National has announced the cancellation of the 2019 Australian Dance Awards, originally scheduled to take place in Darwin on August 11, following the National Dance Forum.

Last Light, Tracks Dance Company. Photograph © Mark Marcelis

In a statement the organisation said: “Shrinking government funding for Ausdance National has resulted in reduced staffing and financial reserves that has led to this decision.”

The Awards, which recognise dance artists and industry professionals, have been produced by Ausdance National for 21 years. They began as a Dancers Picnic to celebrate International Dance Day, and grew into a significant event that has been hosted around the country.

The decision to cancel this year’s Awards is part of a larger review of Ausdance National, which is now reviewing the organisation’s priorities in light of the reduced funding. The decision “to suspend the Australian Dance Awards in their current form… will allow for a much-needed review of the current processes and systems and determine the on-going viability of the Awards program,” said the statement.

Gene Moyle, Ausdance National President, said: “Ausdance National will lead a process of collaboration with key stakeholders to...