Presented annually on 27 May, marking the anniversary of the 1967 Referendum and the beginning of National Reconciliation Week, the Awards recognise the extraordinary contribution of First Nations artists, cultural leaders, arts workers and creative businesses across Australia.
Executive Director First Nations Arts and Culture Franchesca Cubillo said:
"The First Nations Arts and Culture Awards recognise the remarkable artists, cultural leaders and organisations whose work continues to shape and strengthen First Nations arts and culture nationally and internationally. This year's recipients and shortlisted nominees represent excellence across generations and disciplines, from lifetime achievement and cultural leadership through to emerging voices and innovative First Nations-led businesses."
Red Ochre Award for Lifetime Achievement in Artistic Excellence
Recipients:
Dr Bronwyn Bancroft
Stephen Pigram
Red Ochre Award for Lifetime Achievement in Cultural Advocacy and Leadership
Recipients:
Djambawa Marawili AM
Hetti Kemarre Perkins
Youth Award for Achievement in the Arts
Recipient:
Hayley Millar Baker
Shortlisted:
Skye Cusack
Callan Purcell
Established Artist of the Year Award
Recipient
John Harvey
Shortlisted
Michael Cook
Alick Tipoti
First Nations Arts and Culture Business Innovation Award
Recipient:
Balya Productions
Shortlisted:
Gilimbaa
The Returning Indigenous Corporation
Creative Australia also congratulates the 2026 First Nations Arts Fellowship recipients, Daen John-Sansbury-Smith, and Maurial Spearim, who are being recognised alongside this year's award recipients.
Also announced during the ceremony was the establishment of a new permanent award category in honour of Rhoda Roberts AO and her enduring legacy as a visionary cultural leader, truth-teller and champion of First Nations voices. The Rhoda Roberts Trailblazer Award recognises an individual who has made a profound impact on the First Nations arts and cultural landscape through sovereign storytelling, advocacy and leadership.
