Cultural Access 2026: Priority Area Projects for Individuals and Organisations (Australia)

Deadline: 25-May-2026

The 2026 Cultural Access Priority Area Projects funding by Create NSW provides $10,000–$100,000 to support inclusive arts and cultural projects across New South Wales. It prioritises First Nations communities, diverse populations, accessibility, and emerging creatives, with a strong focus on equity and community impact.

Overview

The Create NSW Cultural Access Priority Area Projects funding supports individuals, groups, and organisations to deliver inclusive arts and cultural experiences across New South Wales.

The program aims to improve equitable access to arts, amplify diverse voices, and strengthen community connections through creative projects.

Key Grant Details

• Funding Body: Create NSW
• Location: New South Wales
• Funding Range:
  • Individuals & Groups: $10,000 – $75,000
  • Organisations: $20,000 – $100,000
• Funding Cap: Maximum 90% of total project cost
• Project Type: Arts and cultural initiatives

Programme Objectives

The program aims to:

• Increase access to arts and culture
• Support diverse and underrepresented communities
• Strengthen community wellbeing and engagement
• Promote creative expression and cultural visibility
• Build capacity and leadership in the arts sector

Key Concept: Cultural Access

Cultural access refers to ensuring all individuals—regardless of background, ability, or location—can participate in, create, and experience arts and culture.

Priority Areas

1. First Nations Communities

• Projects led by or benefiting Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities
• Respect for cultural protocols and storytelling

2. Diverse Communities

• Culturally and linguistically diverse (CALD) communities
• LGBTQIA+ individuals
• Regional and urban populations

3. Accessibility and Inclusion

• People with disability
• d/Deaf communities
• Accessible arts practices

4. Geographic Focus

• Western Sydney
• Regional NSW

5. Emerging Creatives

• Young people aged 18–25
• Early-career artists

What Types of Projects Are Supported?

Eligible Activities

• Development, creation, and presentation of artistic work
• Community arts programs and cultural events
• Collaborative and participatory projects
• Professional development and mentorship initiatives

Capacity Building Support

• Workshops and training
• Mentorship programmes
• Career development opportunities

Eligible Expenses

Funding can cover:

• Artist fees
• Venue hire
• Travel and accommodation
• Marketing and promotion
• Materials and production costs
• Administration costs
• Accessibility measures (e.g., interpreters, adaptive tools)
• First Nations cultural protocol costs

Who is Eligible?

Individuals

• Must be 18+
• Must have lived in NSW for at least 12 months

Groups

• Must have a lead applicant meeting individual eligibility criteria

Organisations

• Must have legal status
• Must operate within NSW

Mandatory Requirements

All applicants must:

• Hold an Australian Business Number (ABN) or
• Have a funds administrator

Who is Not Eligible?

• Government agencies
• Schools
• Organisations with existing multi-year funding under the same program
• Screen production or contemporary music projects funded under other programs

How to Apply

Step-by-Step Process

1. Confirm eligibility (individual, group, or organisation)
2. Identify a project aligned with priority areas
3. Develop a clear project plan including:
   • Objectives and activities
   • Target community
   • Outcomes and impact
4. Prepare a realistic budget (max 90% funding request)
5. Include accessibility and inclusion measures
6. Submit application through the Create NSW platform
7. Await assessment and funding decision

How Applications Are Evaluated

Applications are assessed based on:

• Alignment with priority areas
• Community impact and engagement
• Artistic and cultural merit
• Feasibility and planning quality
• Inclusivity and accessibility

Why This Program Matters

This program is important because it:

• Expands equitable access to arts and culture
• Supports underrepresented voices and communities
• Strengthens creative industries and local economies
• Encourages inclusive storytelling and cultural diversity

It contributes to a more inclusive and dynamic arts ecosystem in NSW.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Weak alignment with priority communities
• Unrealistic or incomplete budgets
• Ignoring accessibility requirements
• Applying without ABN or funds administrator

Practical Tips

• Clearly define your target community
• Demonstrate real community benefit
• Include accessibility from the start
• Build partnerships with local organisations

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. How much funding can I request?

$10,000–$75,000 for individuals/groups and $20,000–$100,000 for organisations.

2. Can the grant cover full project costs?

No, it can cover up to 90% of total project income.

3. Who can apply?

Individuals, groups, and organisations based in NSW.

4. Is an ABN required?

Yes, or a funds administrator must be in place.

5. What types of projects are prioritised?

Inclusive arts projects benefiting priority communities.

6. Are accessibility costs eligible?

Yes, accessibility measures are fully supported.

7. Why is this program important?

It promotes inclusion, diversity, and access in the arts sector.

Conclusion

The Cultural Access Priority Area Projects 2026 funding provides significant support for inclusive and community-focused arts initiatives in New South Wales. By prioritising diversity, accessibility, and emerging talent, the program helps build a more equitable cultural landscape.

Applicants with strong community alignment, clear impact, and inclusive design are best positioned to succeed.

For more information, visit NSW Government.