Submit Applications for Artist Project Grant Program (Australia)

The Artist Project Grants provide one-off funding of AUD 5,000 to support local artists, creatives, and small arts organisations in Frankston City to develop and present new creative works. The program supports innovative arts projects that strengthen cultural participation, community engagement, collaboration, accessibility, and Frankston’s identity as a Creative City.

Overview of the Artist Project Grants

The Artist Project Grants support artists and creative practitioners to create and share new work that contributes to the cultural vibrancy and community life of Frankston City, Victoria.

The grant encourages creative projects that promote:

Artistic innovation and experimentation.
Community participation.
Cultural diversity and inclusion.
Collaboration between artists and organisations.
Accessible arts experiences for residents and visitors.

The program supports artists at different career stages, including emerging, mid-career, and established practitioners.

Grant Amount and Payment Structure

Successful applicants will receive a total grant of:

AUD 5,000

The funding is paid in two stages:

First payment – 50% of the grant
- Provided after the funding agreement is signed.
Final payment – 50% of the grant
- Released after the project is completed.
- Applicants must submit all required reports and meet funding obligations.

Purpose of the Grant Program

The Artist Project Grants aim to build Frankston City’s reputation as a Creative City by supporting projects that:

Create bold and original artistic works.
Encourage creativity, exploration, and artistic excellence.
Engage local communities and visitors.
Provide opportunities for creative expression.
Celebrate cultural diversity and inclusion.
Strengthen partnerships and collaborations within the arts sector.

Who Is Eligible?

Applications are open to:

Individual artists.
Creative practitioners.
Practising artists working within small arts organisations.

Applicants may be at any stage of their creative career, including:

Emerging artists.
Mid-career artists.
Established artists.

Eligibility Requirements

Applicants must meet the following criteria:

Location and Community Connection

Applicants must:

Live, work, or study in Frankston City, or
Demonstrate a strong connection or affiliation with the Frankston City area.

Business and Registration Requirements

Applicants must have one of the following:

An Australian Business Number (ABN).
An application submitted through an auspicing organisation with an ABN.
Ability to complete a Statement by Supplier form.

Project Requirements

Proposed projects must:

Take place within Frankston City.
Be accessible to the general community.
Not restrict participation based on discrimination or exclusion.
Be completed and presented before 30 June 2027.

Eligible Project Activities and Expenses

Grant funding can support essential costs involved in developing and delivering creative projects.

Eligible expenses include:

Creative Development

Creative development materials.
Research and experimentation costs.
Artist and creative professional fees.

Production and Presentation

Production expenses.
Exhibition installation.
Venue hire.
Artwork printing.
Artwork framing.
Props and set pieces.
Design and construction materials.

Community Engagement and Collaboration

Workshops.
Collaboration activities.
Project delivery costs.
Partnership-based creative activities.

Marketing and Documentation

Marketing materials.
Promotional activities.
Signage.
Photography.
Recording and documentation.

Accessibility Support

Funding may also support accessibility costs that help community members participate in creative activities.

Ineligible Expenses

Grant funding cannot be used for:

Projects submitted by applicants who do not meet eligibility requirements.
Activities already funded by Frankston City Council.
Projects that do not comply with legal or planning requirements.
Council-related fees.
Major capital works.
Routine maintenance expenses.
Prohibited items or activities.
Costs for completed or past events.
Previously purchased items.

Why It Matters

The Artist Project Grants play an important role in strengthening the local creative economy and increasing community access to arts and culture.

The program helps by:

Supporting local artists to develop new creative work.
Increasing opportunities for community participation.
Encouraging diverse cultural expressions.
Creating accessible arts experiences.
Building partnerships between artists, organisations, and communities.
Enhancing Frankston City’s cultural identity.

Creative projects funded through this program contribute to a more connected, inclusive, and vibrant community.

How to Apply

Applicants should follow these steps:

Step 1: Confirm Eligibility

Before applying, applicants should check that they:

Meet artist or creative eligibility requirements.
Have the required ABN arrangement.
Have a connection to Frankston City.
Can complete the project before the deadline.

Step 2: Develop a Project Proposal

Applicants should prepare details including:

Project concept and artistic vision.
Community benefits.
Creative outcomes.
Timeline and delivery plan.
Budget and funding requirements.
Accessibility considerations.

Step 3: Prepare Supporting Information

Applicants may need to provide:

Artist profile or creative background.
Project budget.
Evidence of Frankston City connection.
Relevant insurance details.
Safeguarding information where required.

Step 4: Submit the Application

Submit the completed grant application according to the program guidelines and ensure all required information is included.

Step 5: Deliver the Project and Report

Successful applicants must:

Complete the approved project.
Meet funding agreement requirements.
Submit final reports before receiving the remaining 50% payment.

Additional Compliance Requirements

Where applicable, successful applicants must:

Hold current Public Liability Insurance.
Follow the Victorian Child Safe Standards.
Align with Council’s Child Safety and Wellbeing Policy.
Maintain appropriate safeguarding practices.

Applicants must also have completed all obligations from any previous Frankston City Council funding programs.

Common Application Mistakes and Tips

Common Mistakes

Applicants should avoid:

Submitting projects that do not take place in Frankston City.
Applying without required ABN arrangements.
Including ineligible expenses in the budget.
Forgetting accessibility considerations.
Failing to explain community impact.
Missing reporting obligations from previous grants.

Application Tips

To strengthen an application:

Clearly explain the creative vision and expected outcomes.
Highlight community engagement opportunities.
Demonstrate how the project supports diversity and inclusion.
Provide a realistic budget.
Explain how the project contributes to Frankston City’s creative identity.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. What is the Artist Project Grants program?

The Artist Project Grants program provides one-off funding to support local artists, creatives, and small arts organisations to develop and present new creative projects in Frankston City.

2. How much funding is available?

Successful applicants receive AUD 5,000. The payment is divided into two stages: 50% after signing the funding agreement and 50% after project completion and reporting.

3. Who can apply for the Artist Project Grants?

Individual artists, creatives, and practising artists within small arts organisations can apply if they meet the eligibility requirements.

4. Can emerging artists apply?

Yes. The program supports artists at all career stages, including emerging, mid-career, and established artists.

5. What types of projects can receive funding?

Projects involving creative development, exhibitions, workshops, performances, artistic collaborations, community engagement, and cultural activities may be eligible.

6. Where must projects take place?

Projects must be delivered within Frankston City and be accessible to the wider community.

7. When must funded projects be completed?

Approved projects must be presented before 30 June 2027.

Conclusion

The Artist Project Grants provide vital support for artists and creative organisations to develop innovative cultural projects in Frankston City. By investing in artistic expression, collaboration, accessibility, and community participation, the program helps create a stronger and more inclusive creative community.