Opportunities for First Nations Artists

The arts of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people reflect the unique cultural heritage of the world’s oldest living culture. The Australia Council grants program maintains Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander decision making on applications from Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, groups and organisations. For more information about core grants and other opportunities visit our funding page.

Aside from our core grants program, which is open to individuals, artists and organisations on an ongoing basis, the Australia Council also offers the below opportunities, which are open only to Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander artists.

Revisit this page to check for new opportunities or changes to closing dates.

The Australia Council Fellowship for Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander Arts
The Australia Council offers a Fellowship for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Arts of $80,000 support outstanding, established artists’ creative activity and professional development for a period of up to two years. Closing date: 5 June, 2018

Signature Works Innovation Lab
Signature Works offers an entirely First Nations creative space with the ambition to strengthen future First Nations signature works and embolden artists with strong ideas and innovative work.
Expressions of interest opening and closing dates in 2018 are yet to be announced.

APAM First Nations Market Readiness Workshop
The First Nations Market Readiness Workshop is for Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander artists and arts workers attending APAM for the first time.
Expressions of interest open in October each year.

APAM First Nations Exchange
The First Nations Exchange is for market ready artists and arts workers, including producers, presenters and programmers, who have experience in touring and collaborating nationally and internationally, and are looking to increase capability in international collaborations and exchanges.
Expressions of Interest open in October each year.

The Dreaming Award
The Dreaming Award recognises an inspirational young artist aged 18-26 years and supports them to create a major body of work through mentoring and partnerships, either nationally or internationally. 
Nominations close in October each year.

The Red Ochre Award
The prestigious Red Ochre Award pays tribute to a senior Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander person for their outstanding lifetime achievement in the arts and their contribution to the recognition of Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander arts, both nationally and internationally.Nominations close in October each year.

Need help with your application? Contact a Grants Officer now