Deadline: 17-Mar-2026
The Regional Arts Fund (RAF) Project Grants program provides up to AUD 30,000 to support arts and cultural projects in regional and remote Australia. It aims to strengthen community participation, grow audiences, support artists’ careers, and enhance the sustainability of regional arts and cultural activities.
Regional Arts Fund Project Grants Program
The Regional Arts Fund is an Australian Government initiative designed to support arts and cultural development in regional and remote communities. The program prioritizes projects that increase access to the arts, strengthen local creative ecosystems, and deliver long-term cultural, social, and economic benefits.
Program Objectives and Focus Areas
The program supports projects that align with the following priority areas:
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Strengthening sustainable economic, social, and cultural outcomes in regional and remote communities
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Building partnerships and networks that leverage financial and in-kind support
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Expanding audiences and increasing community engagement with the arts
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Creating employment and professional development opportunities for regional and remote artists
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Improving the quality, reach, and long-term viability of artistic and cultural activities
Funding Amount and Grant Structure
Applicants may apply for Project Grants of up to AUD 30,000.
There is no minimum funding amount.
Funding allocations depend on the availability of funds within each state or territory.
Applicants requesting more than AUD 20,000 are strongly encouraged to consult with a Regional Program Administrator before submitting an application.
Who Is Eligible?
To be eligible, applicants must meet all of the following criteria:
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Be an individual, Australian incorporated organization, or local government organization
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Reside in a postcode classified as regional or remote under the Modified Monash Model (MMM)
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Hold an active Australian Business Number (ABN) registered to the applicant’s name and location
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Be registered for GST if required by law
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Have no outstanding reports, acquittals, or serious compliance breaches related to government funding
The following applicants are not eligible:
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Unincorporated groups without an eligible auspicing organization
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For-profit companies
Why This Funding Matters
The Regional Arts Fund plays a critical role in ensuring equitable access to arts and culture across Australia. It addresses geographic barriers by investing directly in regional creativity, supporting local artists, and enabling communities to participate in high-quality cultural experiences that might otherwise be unavailable.
How the Program Works
The program operates through a competitive application process managed by Regional Program Administrators in each state and territory.
Applications are assessed based on alignment with program objectives, community benefit, artistic quality, feasibility, and value for money.
Funding decisions reflect both project merit and the distribution of available funds across regions.
How to Apply
Follow these steps to apply successfully:
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Confirm your postcode eligibility using the Modified Monash Model Map
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Define a clear arts or cultural project with measurable community outcomes
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Prepare a realistic budget outlining requested funding and any co-contributions
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Consult with a Regional Program Administrator if requesting more than AUD 20,000
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Submit your application through the designated funding portal before the deadline
Common Mistakes to Avoid
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Applying without confirming MMM regional postcode eligibility
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Requesting large funding amounts without prior consultation
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Submitting unclear project objectives or weak community impact statements
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Failing to demonstrate partnerships or local engagement
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Having outstanding acquittals from previous government-funded projects
Frequently Asked Questions
What types of projects are funded?
The program funds arts and cultural projects that engage regional communities, support artists, and contribute to sustainable cultural development.
Is there a minimum grant amount?
No. There is no minimum funding request under the Project Grants category.
Can individuals apply, or only organizations?
Both individuals and eligible organizations can apply, provided all eligibility criteria are met.
What is the Modified Monash Model?
The Modified Monash Model is a geographic classification system used by the Australian Government to define regional and remote areas.
Are for-profit companies eligible?
No. For-profit companies are not eligible to apply under this program.
Do I need an ABN to apply?
Yes. All applicants must have an active Australian Business Number registered to their name and location.
Conclusion
The Regional Arts Fund Project Grants program is a vital funding opportunity for individuals and organizations in regional and remote Australia. By supporting creative projects, strengthening local partnerships, and investing in artists and communities, the program helps build a more inclusive, sustainable, and vibrant national arts landscape.
For more information, visit Regional Arts WA.
