The ‘Expanding Cultures’ conference will focus on the contribution of arts and cultural development to the strength and well-being of local communities. It will be of particular interest to decision and policymakers in government (especially local government) as well as staff engaged in arts and cultural planning and programming. Themes identified as significant for local councils and communities will be explored. Call for papers: The second round of proposals is now open. Expressions of Interest from local, interstate and overseas presenters addressing conference themes are invited. Conference themes · local government’s engagement with Indigenous art and culture · improving evaluation of arts activities and cultural development programs · the changing shape of community cultures and their impact on local government in Victoria · arts as a vehicle for building and strengthening communities and facilitating social inclusion · the impact of arts activities on health, education and economic development. · innovative partnerships Proposals are particularly encouraged on conference themes - local government’s engagement with indigenous art and culture - improving evaluation of arts activities and community development programs