The ACT Government is committed to building stronger partnerships with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander artists.
This commitment comes with funding for self-determined activities led by and for the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander artists and communities of the capital region. The funding is provided through the Aboriginal and Torres Islander Cultural Arts Program (the Cultural Arts Program).
Cultural Arts Program Objective
The objective of the Cultural Arts Program is to enhance outcomes that reflect Canberra’s unique culture and identity by funding self-determined programs that support and enhance arts and cultural outcomes for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander artists and build cultural leadership.
Self-determined programs that are initiated and led by an Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander individual, group or organisation can include:
- creating arts and cultural works
- presenting or performing arts and cultural works
- professional or skills development, arts mentoring and artists residencies
- community arts and cultural development
- marketing and promotion of arts activities
These programs can be across a range of artforms and cultural practice including dance, music, theatre, visual arts and crafts, literature, digital and new media, screen and arts-based festivals.
Funding Strategies
Activities will reflect one or more of the three strategies:
- Create amazing art and culture – everywhere, at any time and for everyone
- Develop arts, cultural and creative industry, practice and facilities – supporting creation and culture at all levels, via any path
- Promote our arts and culture – to attract artists, arts workers, visitors and investment
Funding Parameters
Funding amounts will be between $3,000 and $15,000 per project.
Two stage application process
Applications will be submitted via the online artsACT grants portal in a two-stage process.
Stage 1: EOI submitted through SmartyGrants. Applications will be assessed, and shortlisted applicants will be invited to submit an application in the second stage.
Stage 2: Final application including detailed budget submitted through SmartyGrants. Applications will be assessed, and recommendations made for the award of funding.
Important dates to remember:
Expressions of Interest (EOI) opens | Monday 1 December 2025 |
EOI submissions close | 12:00pm Monday 9 February 2026 |
Shortlisted applicants invited to submit full applications | Friday 20 February 2026 |
Shortlisted applicants submit full application | 12:00pm Thursday 2 April 2026 |
Successful applicants notified | May 2026 |
Cultural Arts Program Guidelines
We encourage all applicants to thoroughly read the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Cultural Arts Program Guidelines and then speak with Ian RT Colless, Assistant Director Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Engagement, Culture and Arts before making an application. You can contact Ian via phone on 0402 141 488 or email IanRT.Colless@act.gov.au.
Please also contact us to discuss any accessibility requirements you may have. You can either phone us on 6207 2384 or email artsACT@act.gov.au