The Latest Breaking News from Khaled Sabsabi

Elizabeth Ann Macgregor says Tony Burke has questions to answer after Khaled Sabsabi’s offer was rescinded but the arts minister has denied involvement

The arts minister spoke to the chief of Creative Australia after questions were asked in parliament about the artist chosen to go to the Venice Biennale.

“To award the submission to two of Australia’s great creative minds, only to revoke it six days later after political interference sets a dangerous precedent."

How and why did Creative Australia uninvite the team it picked for the Venice Biennale? There are calls for an independent inquiry to find out.

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Lee calls unanimous decision a ‘violation’ of principle of valuing an artist’s voice

Visual arts head Mikala Tai and program manager Tahmina Maskinyar resign in support of Lebanese-born artist

To be selected as the artist and curator team to represent Australia at the Venice Biennale is considered the ultimate exhibition for an artistic team. To have your selection rescinded, as has now happened to the 2026 team of Khaled Sabsabi and curator Michael Dagostino, is without precedent.

Constitutional expert warns referendum could be needed to change rules; Khaled Sabsabi axed to avoid ‘divisive debate’