Deadline: 02-Jun-2026
The Playing Australia Project Investment program funds performing arts organisations to tour productions across regional and remote Australia. It supports a wide range of touring costs and prioritises innovative, community-engaged, and sustainable touring models with confirmed itineraries.
Overview
The Playing Australia Project Investment supports performing arts tours that bring cultural experiences to regional and remote communities across Australia.
The program enables organisations to deliver accessible, high-quality performances beyond metropolitan areas.
Key Grant Details
- Funding Type: Project-based touring support
- Eligible Applicants: Legally constituted organisations only
- Geographic Focus: Regional and remote Australia
- Touring Requirement: Confirmed itinerary required before applying
- Large Grants Threshold: Over $250,000 (additional requirements apply)
Programme Objectives
The program aims to:
- Increase access to performing arts in underserved regions
- Support regional and remote touring activities
- Encourage innovative and flexible touring models
- Strengthen community engagement through arts
- Promote sustainable and resilient touring practices
Key Concept: Regional Touring
Regional touring refers to delivering performances outside major cities, ensuring equitable cultural access across geographically dispersed communities.
What Costs Are Supported?
Eligible Expenses
- Artist and staff fees
- Rehearsal and remounting costs
- Production expenses
- Freight and transport
- Accommodation and travel allowances
- Tour coordination and logistics
Additional Support Areas
- Environmental sustainability initiatives
- Well-being and safety of touring teams
Flexible Touring Models
The program encourages innovative approaches such as:
- Residency-based performances
- Concept touring
- Digital or hybrid tours
- Annual touring programs
- Community engagement-focused projects
Who is Eligible?
Eligible Applicants
- Legally registered organisations (arts and cultural sector)
Mandatory Requirements
Applicants must:
- Have a confirmed touring itinerary
- Demonstrate organisational capacity to deliver tours
- Meet all compliance requirements
Ineligible Applicants
- Individuals
- Informal or unincorporated groups
- Organisations with:
- Overdue grant reports
- Existing multi-year funding under the same program
- Outstanding financial obligations to Creative Australia
Special Requirements for Large Grants
For funding requests exceeding $250,000:
- Applicants must provide:
- Audited financial statements for the past 2 years
- If successful:
- A certified financial report must be submitted
- Report must be verified by an independent accountant
Risk Management and Contingency Planning
Applicants are expected to include strategies for:
- Natural disasters
- Cost inflation
- Illness or unforeseen disruptions
This ensures project continuity and resilience.
How to Apply
Step-by-Step Process
- Confirm organisational eligibility
- Develop a confirmed touring itinerary
- Design a touring model aligned with program goals
- Prepare application including:
- Project description
- Touring schedule
- Budget and cost breakdown
- Community engagement strategy
- Risk and contingency plan
- Include audited accounts (if requesting over $250,000)
- Submit application through the official platform
- Await assessment and funding decision
How Applications Are Evaluated
Applications are assessed based on:
- Artistic and cultural value
- Reach and impact in regional communities
- Feasibility and planning quality
- Innovation in touring approach
- Financial and organisational capacity
Why This Program Matters
This program is important because it:
- Expands access to performing arts across Australia
- Supports regional cultural development
- Encourages innovation in arts delivery
- Promotes sustainable touring practices
It helps bridge the gap between urban cultural hubs and remote communities.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Applying without a confirmed itinerary
- कमजोर or unclear budget planning
- Ignoring risk and contingency requirements
- Failing to meet compliance or reporting obligations
Practical Tips
- Secure tour partners and venues early
- Clearly define audience reach and impact
- Include strong community engagement elements
- Plan for flexibility and unexpected disruptions
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Who can apply?
Only legally constituted organisations in the arts sector.
2. Are individuals eligible?
No, individuals and informal groups cannot apply.
3. What is required before applying?
A confirmed touring itinerary.
4. What costs are covered?
Touring-related expenses such as fees, travel, accommodation, and production.
5. Are innovative touring models allowed?
Yes, including digital, residency-based, and hybrid formats.
6. What happens for large funding requests?
Additional financial documentation and reporting are required.
7. Why is this program important?
It improves access to performing arts in regional and remote communities.
Conclusion
The Playing Australia Project Investment Program 2026 provides essential support for organisations delivering performing arts tours to underserved regions. By funding diverse touring models and prioritising sustainability and community engagement, the program strengthens cultural access across Australia.
Organisations with clear plans, confirmed itineraries, and strong community impact strategies are best positioned to secure funding.
For more information, visit Creative Australia.
