 Many of Australia 's performing arts companies receive funding through the federal government 's Australia Council . There is a symphony orchestra in each state , and a national opera company , Opera Australia , well known for its famous soprano Joan Sutherland . At the beginning of the 20th century , Nellie Melba was one of the world 's leading opera singers . Ballet and dance are represented by The Australian Ballet and various state companies . Each state has a publicly funded theatre company . 
