Dubbo City councillors gave their initial support to the idea, which was presented as a Mayoral Minute at council's monthly meeting on Monday, agreeing to put the proposal to a public exhibition for 28 days and seek submissions from the public.

If approved, the award would recognise dedication to the arts at Dubbo, whether that be for performances, administration or other aspects.

It was presented as Dubbo Artz secretary Leonie Ward addressed councillors on Monday, in which she said the award had been the brainchild of the Dubbo Cultural Forum. She said it began as a plan to recognise a cultural group but council had preferred to present an individual award.

"We are thrilled at the possibility of an arts culture award to be awarded alongside existing sporting and citizenship awards on Australia Day, regardless of whether it is for an individual or organisation is fantastic," she said.

"It can only add to the growing appreciation of the arts and culture in our community."

Ms Ward said she hoped a cultural group award may also be presented in the future however councillor Allan Smith said it may be better for the Dubbo arts community to look at setting up their own awards night.

An amendment was made before the motion passed, changing the name from the Dubbo Cultural Citizen of the Award to Dubbo Cultural Person of the Award.

Cr Smith said the word citizen was used to elevate Citizen of the Year and Young Citizen of the Year above the rest of the awards.