Eligibility FAQs

Frequently Asked Questions:

• What is the difference between a ‘group’ and an ‘organisation’?

  We define a ‘group’ as two or more individuals who do not form a legally constituted organisation.  This can include co-collaborators and collectives.  Groups are not eligible to apply to programs open only to organisations.

  An ‘organisation’ is a legally constituted organisation that is registered or created by law. For example, incorporated associations, companies limited by guarantee or government statutory authorities are all defined as organisations. Organisations that are not legally constituted are not eligible to apply for funding in grant categories that are open to organisations only. Organisations may be required to provide a certificate of incorporation or evidence of their current legal status.  Funding programs for organisations are not intended for sole traders or partnerships.

• If I apply to one of the Government programs delivered by the Australia Council, will this count as one of my applications to the Australia Council per year?
  No. Although applicants may submit a maximum of three (3) applications to the Australia Council grants program per calendar year, any additional applications to the Government programs managed by the Australia Council do not count.
• Can groups made up of Australian and international artists eligible to apply?
  Yes. However, the contact person for group applications must be an Australian citizen or permanent resident.
• Can international organisations apply?
  Yes, provided that the project that they are proposing directly benefits Australian artists or the Australian arts sector.
• What is your definition of a practising artist?
  We provide funding to practising artists or artsworkers. While you may not regularly earn income from your practice, you must be identified and recognised by your peers as a practising artist or artsworker. This may include cultural practitioners, editors, producers, curators and arts managers.
• I have a grant that has not been satisfactorily acquitted or is overdue. Am I eligible to apply?
  No. If you have an overdue grant acquittal you will not be eligible to apply for any further grants.
• Can I apply to the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Island Arts Assessment Panel?

  The following eligibility requirements apply to applicants to the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Island Arts Assessment Panel:

  • Individuals – must be Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander
  • Groups – the members of the group must be Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander
  • Organisations – the majority of the governing body of the organisation must be Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander.
• My organisation is a recipient of Catalyst funding. Are we eligible to apply for Arts Projects grants?
  Yes. However, if your Catalyst project funding concludes after September 2018 it will be counted as one of your applications to the Australia Council for 2018.
• I am a foreign national living or working in Australia. Am I eligible to apply?
  No. Only Australian citizens and Australian permanent residents may apply to the Australia Council for funding. Foreign nationals who are permitted to live and work in Australia by holding visas such as a Special Category visa or a Bridging visa are not eligible to apply.