Making Connections: creative industries networks in outer-suburban locations

The role of networks and their contribution to sustaining and developing creative industries is well documented. This article argues that although networks operate across geographical boundaries, particularly through the use of communication technologies, the majority of studies have focused on the ways in which networks operate in (a) specific inner-urban metropolitan regions or (b) specific industries. Such studies are informed by the geographical mindset of creative city proponents in which inner-urban precincts are seen as the prime location for creative industries activity, business development and opportunity. But what of those creative industries situated beyond the inner city? Evidence in Australia suggests there is increasing creative industries activity beyond the inner city, in outer-suburban and ex-urban areas. This article identifies characteristics of creative industries networks in outer-suburban locations in Melbourne and Brisbane drawing on extensive ethnographic fieldwork. It argues that supporting and sustaining creative industries networks in these locations may require different strategies than those applied to inner-city networks.