Deadline: 02-Sep-2025
Creative Australia is inviting applications for the Elevate: First Nations Storytelling and Literature Fund. This grant supports the development of career pathways for First Nations individuals and groups working in the literature sector. Projects may involve capacity building, networking, mentoring, residencies, and audience development. Activities can take place nationally, internationally, online, or in hybrid formats.
Applicants must apply for the full amount of $10,000. Projects should begin on or after 1 December 2025 and be completed within one year from the start date specified in the application.
Funding can cover a wide range of expenses such as artist fees, editing or publishing costs, travel, accommodation, residency fees, short courses, masterclasses, and related materials. It may also include costs for consultations with Elders, Indigenous Cultural Intellectual Property (ICIP) fees, and access expenses.
Eligible projects may include short courses, masterclasses, residencies, mentoring opportunities, or attending festivals and conferences both nationally and internationally.
This fund is open to First Nations individuals and groups based in Australia, including writers, poets, editors, illustrators, journalists, and arts workers. Each applicant may submit one application during the funding round.
You are not eligible to apply if you are a First Nations organisation, a manager or agent of an artist, based outside of Australia, requesting funds for an already funded or ongoing project, seeking money for large capital equipment, or have any outstanding obligations or debts to Creative Australia.
Applications are assessed on three main criteria: Project Quality, Project Impact, and Project Viability.
Project Quality is evaluated based on a clear vision, delivery capacity, past work, relevant collaborators, and any engagement with Elders or communities. Project Impact looks at how the project benefits artistic and cultural practice, skills development, and relationship-building. It also considers the project’s relevance, timing, and contribution to cultural expression and sector equity.
Project Viability includes having a realistic timeline and budget. This may require contingency and COVID-safety plans, and fair payments for artists, collaborators, and cultural consultants, all supported by a detailed financial breakdown.
For more information, visit Creative Australia.