Deadline: 5-Aug-25
Creative Australia is inviting applications for its Plus1 program, a matched funding initiative designed to support small-to-medium arts and cultural organisations. The program aims to enhance fundraising capabilities, attract private sector support, expand networks, and foster strong, sustainable partnerships across Australia’s arts and cultural sector.
The Plus1 program offers two funding streams based on the applicant’s annual turnover. Stream A is available to organisations with an annual turnover of up to $500,000 and offers matched funding of up to $25,000. Stream B is available to those with a turnover between $500,000 and $5 million, with access to matched funding of up to $50,000.
A broad range of projects and activities may be supported under Plus1. These include employing artists or cultural workers, covering core operational expenses, and developing or presenting new artistic works. Funding may also be used for educational programs, scholarship opportunities, hiring new staff in key roles such as fundraising or business development, and improving infrastructure through capital works or building upgrades. Support may also extend to fundraising tools, including campaign costs and investments in CRM systems or IT.
To be eligible, applicants must be legally constituted entities with an Australian Business Number (ABN), have an annual turnover below $5 million in either the 2024 calendar year or 2023/24 financial year, and be based in Australia. Their primary purpose must be to provide arts and cultural experiences for Australian artists and audiences.
However, applications will not be accepted from organisations that received Plus1 funding in 2024/25, have an annual turnover of $5 million or more, or exist solely to support the fundraising activities of other organisations that fall under the same ineligible categories.
This initiative presents a valuable opportunity for growing arts organisations to build capacity, deepen impact, and increase engagement through private and public partnerships.
For more information, visit Creative Australia.
