Deadline: 22-Dec-2025
provides one-off grants to support new creative performing arts and visual arts work across Queensland. With two major funding streams offering up to $70,000 and $30,000, the program aims to strengthen artistic excellence, expand national and international market access, and generate sustainable economic opportunities for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander creatives. Applications close on 22 December 2025 at 2pm, with funded activities starting after 02 April 2026.
Overview
The Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Arts Development Fund is a major Arts Queensland initiative supporting new creative work and market development for Queensland-based Indigenous artists. It aligns with Queensland’s Time to Shine: A 10-year arts and cultural strategy, focusing on economic growth, cultural leadership and sustainable arts careers.
Key Funding Streams
1. Performing Arts Stream (Up to $70,000)
Supports creative development, production, presentation and distribution of new performing arts works. Eligible sectors include:
• Dance
• Theatre
• Cabaret
• Circus
• Physical theatre
• Opera
• Musicals
• Classical and contemporary music
Also supports collaboration with nationally or internationally recognised artists or companies.
2. Visual Arts Market Development Stream (Up to $30,000)
Supports participation in major international galleries, museums or recognised global markets. Eligible costs include:
• Crating and freight
• Artwork installation
• Travel
• Accommodation
• International promotional materials
Additional Access Support
Applicants may request up to $10,000 to enhance accessibility for artists, collaborators or audiences with disability. This can cover:
• Transport support
• Interpretation services
• Captioning
• Specialist technical equipment
Why This Fund Matters
• Strengthens Queensland’s Indigenous creative industries
• Expands national and international visibility for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander artists
• Supports cultural expression, artistic leadership and economic participation
• Improves arts accessibility and inclusion statewide
Who Is Eligible?
Eligible Applicants
• Queensland-based Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander individuals, groups or organisations
• Must hold an active ABN and bank account
• Individuals must be Australian citizens or permanent residents aged 18+
• Organisations must be at least 50% Indigenous-owned and led
• Only one application per round is allowed
Ineligible Applicants
• Applicants who owe funds to Arts Queensland
• Those with incomplete reporting from previous grants
• Organisations not meeting Indigenous ownership criteria
Auspicing
Applicants may apply through an auspice body. Clear responsibilities and agreements must be documented.
Assessment Criteria
Applications are judged on:
• Quality: Artistic merit and strength of the concept
• Impact: Economic, cultural and career development value
• Value: Realistic budgeting and strong planning
• Capacity: Skills and experience of participating artists and partners
• Audience Reach: Benefits for Queensland communities or international markets
Required Support Material
Applicants must include:
• Artist CVs
• Work samples
• Letters of confirmation from partners or collaborators
• Evaluation plans
• Stream-specific documentation:
– Marketing plan (Performing Arts)
– Invitation/market interest evidence (Visual Arts)
Additional documents may be required for:
• Working with communities
• Use of others’ intellectual property
• Applications via an auspice body
How to Apply
Step-by-Step Process
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Review eligibility, funding stream guidelines and priority areas.
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Develop a clear project concept aligned with Fund outcomes.
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Prepare budget, timelines and support materials.
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Secure partner confirmations or international invitations (if applicable).
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Complete the online application form through Arts Queensland.
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Submit by 22 December 2025 at 2pm.
Key Dates
• Applications close: 22 December 2025, 2pm
• Notifications: By end-February 2026
• Earliest project start date: After 02 April 2026
Common Mistakes to Avoid
• Submitting incomplete support materials
• Weak or unclear artistic rationale
• Underdeveloped budgets without justification
• Missing letters of confirmation from partners
• Applying without verifying Indigenous leadership requirements
• Submitting late (applications close sharp at 2pm)
FAQ
1. Can applicants apply to both funding streams?
No. Only one application per round is permitted.
2. Can non-Indigenous organisations apply?
Only if they are at least 50% owned and led by Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.
3. Can funding be used for touring within Australia?
Yes, within the Performing Arts stream, if tied to presentation and distribution of new work.
4. Are students eligible to apply?
Yes, if they meet citizenship, age and ABN requirements.
5. Does the fund support collaborations?
Yes. Collaborations with significant national or international artists are encouraged.
6. Can the access support funding be used alone?
No. It must be attached to an application under the Performing Arts or Visual Arts stream.
7. Is this fund open to applicants outside Queensland?
No. Only Queensland-based applicants are eligible.
Conclusion
The Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Arts Development Fund provides a high-impact opportunity for Indigenous creatives in Queensland to develop new artistic works, access global markets and grow sustainable careers. With generous grants, clear funding streams and a strong focus on cultural and economic outcomes, this program is a vital pathway for strengthening Queensland’s Indigenous arts sector.
For more information, visit Arts Queensland.