Deadline: 04-Aug-2026
Creative Australia is seeking Expressions of Interest from Australian artists to develop major new work for the Australia Pavilion at the 62nd International Art Exhibition of La Biennale di Venezia in 2028. The opportunity supports ambitious contemporary art projects that engage with global artistic discourse, sustainability, accessibility, and First Nations cultural protocols. Selected artists and curators receive dedicated fellowships and full production support to present work at one of the world’s most prestigious art exhibitions.
Overview of the Opportunity
This initiative is delivered by Creative Australia to support Australian representation at the Venice Biennale, hosted by the La Biennale di Venezia.
The Australia Pavilion provides a global platform for contemporary Australian art practice, showcasing new work to international audiences, curators, and institutions.
The 2028 program emphasizes:
- Large-scale contemporary artistic production
- International cultural engagement
- Curatorial innovation
- Inclusive and sustainable exhibition practices
Key Focus Areas
Contemporary Australian Art Practice
- Development of ambitious new artworks
- Representation of current Australian artistic trends
- Engagement with global contemporary art discourse
Curatorial Excellence
- Strong exhibition concept and curatorial rationale
- Coherent narrative and thematic framing
- Engagement with international audiences
First Nations Cultural Integrity
- Respect for First Nations Cultural and Intellectual Property protocols
- Ethical collaboration and representation
- Culturally safe artistic practices
Accessibility and Inclusion
- Inclusive audience engagement strategies
- Accessible exhibition design and presentation
- Broad public engagement across diverse audiences
Sustainability
- Environmentally responsible production practices
- Sustainable materials and logistics planning
- Reduced environmental impact of exhibition delivery
Community and International Engagement
- Engagement with communities where relevant
- Dialogue with international art networks
- Cross-cultural collaboration
Funding and Support
Artist Fellowship
- AUD 100,000 total for selected artist(s)
- Covers development, creation, and production of new work
Curator Fellowship
- AUD 50,000 total for selected curator(s)
Additional Support Provided
- Travel and accommodation in Venice
- Freight and logistics for artworks
- Fabrication and installation support
- Pavilion operations and staffing
- Public relations and marketing
Who Can Apply
Eligible Applicants
- Individual artists
- Groups of artists
- Curators (as part of artistic team)
Eligibility Requirements
Applicants must:
- Be Australian citizens or Australian permanent residents
- Be practising artists or arts professionals
- Apply as individuals or groups (not organisations)
Ineligible Applicants
- Organisations (not permitted)
- Applicants with multiple submissions in the same round
- Applicants with overdue grant reports
- Applicants owing funds to Creative Australia
Project Requirements
Artistic Proposal Expectations
Shortlisted applicants must demonstrate:
- A significant new body of work
- Strong curatorial concept and rationale
- International relevance and discourse engagement
- Audience engagement strategy
- Accessibility and inclusion planning
- Sustainability considerations
- Plans for future exhibition in Australia
Exhibition Context
- Work must be designed for the Australia Pavilion
- Must respond to the Venice Biennale context
- Must be suitable for international exhibition conditions
Why This Opportunity Matters
This program positions Australian artists on one of the world’s most influential contemporary art stages. It strengthens international visibility for Australian art while supporting major new artistic production and curatorial innovation.
Key impacts:
- Elevates Australian contemporary art globally
- Supports large-scale artistic experimentation
- Strengthens international cultural exchange
- Promotes First Nations cultural protocols in global contexts
- Encourages sustainable and inclusive exhibition practices
How the Process Works
Step 1: Expression of Interest (EOI)
- Submit initial artistic concept
- Outline exhibition idea and team structure
Step 2: Shortlisting
- Selected applicants invited to Stage Two
- Review based on concept strength and international relevance
Step 3: Detailed Proposal (Stage Two)
- Expanded artistic and curatorial plan
- Accessibility and sustainability strategies
- Audience engagement framework
- Future presentation plans in Australia
Step 4: Selection of Artist and Curator
- Final team selected for Australia Pavilion 2028
- Fellowship funding awarded
Step 5: Production and Development
- Creation of new major artworks
- Collaboration between artist, curator, and stakeholders
Step 6: Exhibition at Venice Biennale
- Installation at Australia Pavilion
- Public presentation during Biennale period
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Applying as an organisation (not eligible)
- Weak or underdeveloped exhibition concept
- Limited engagement with international context
- Missing sustainability or accessibility planning
- Ignoring First Nations cultural protocols
- Incomplete eligibility compliance
Tips for a Strong Application
- Develop a bold, clearly articulated artistic vision
- Demonstrate relevance to global contemporary art discourse
- Include strong curatorial framing and storytelling
- Prioritise accessibility and sustainability early
- Show readiness for large-scale international production
- Ensure cultural protocols are properly addressed
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Australia Pavilion at Venice Biennale?
It is Australia’s official exhibition space at the Venice Biennale showcasing contemporary Australian art.
Who runs the program?
Creative Australia.
How much funding is provided?
AUD 100,000 for artists and AUD 50,000 for curators, plus production and travel support.
Who can apply?
Australian citizen or permanent resident artists and curators applying as individuals or groups.
Can organisations apply?
No, only individuals or groups are eligible.
What is the main goal?
To present major new Australian contemporary art on an international stage.
What is required in Stage Two?
A detailed exhibition plan including concept, accessibility, sustainability, and future Australian presentation.
Conclusion
The Australia Pavilion Venice Biennale 2028 opportunity is a flagship platform for Australian contemporary artists to develop and present major new work internationally. It combines significant funding with global exposure, emphasizing innovation, inclusivity, sustainability, and cultural responsibility in contemporary art practice.
For more information, visit Creative Australia.
