The new closing dates for 2010 and 2011 for dance grants

We are continually looking at how we can improve our service to clients applying for grants. We have listened to the general feedback about our closing dates over the last few years and the impact it has on your creation and planning cycle of work.

As a result we have made some changes, with the ultimate goal to minimise the amount of waiting time for artists between the closing and notification date.

Dance board

While short term the shift in dates will require some readjustment by applicants and create some extra work internally, we think that the sector will benefit from these changes.

The change from a November closing date to an earlier closing date in August should enable artists to plan more effectively for the year ahead. It will also shorten the assessment turnaround time as the summer holiday period will no longer fall in the middle of this cycle.

The other major change is that the Artform Development category will have only one closing date in 2010 - just after mid-year in August. This will mean that applicants can apply in August and be notified in late November to help them plan for the year ahead.

Please note that in 2011 there will also be closing dates for Key Organisations Multi-year and Key Organisations Emerging funding. These dates have not yet been finalised.

If you have any concerns or questions please contact Michelle Silby – Program Manager, Dance at m.silby@australiacouncil.gov.au or 02 9215 9164.