1 September 2025
The Finocchiaro CLP Government is backing Territory creativity like never before, with $7.93 million in Arts Grants to help local artists, art workers and organisations create, perform and showcase their work, from remote communities to the world stage.
At the heart of the 2025-26 program is the new Touring the Territory and Export Ready Fund, providing grants of up to $20,000 to take performances, exhibitions and projects into regional and remote communities, as well as to interstate and international audiences.
This means more Territorians will experience world-class local art close to home, while export-ready artists will be supported to break into new national and global markets.
Minister for Arts, Jinson Charls said the investment was a game-changer for the sector.
"The Arts Grants Program supports artists at every stage of their careers, strengthens our cultural economy and brings people together through shared artistic experiences.
"In our year of action, certainty and security, we are opening new pathways for Territory artists - from touring work to remote communities, to showcasing export-ready projects on national and international stages. These opportunities not only grow audiences but also help raise the profile of Territory art and culture across Australia and the world," said Mr Charls.
Supporting emerging talent remains a priority in 2025-26 through the NXT Gen Arts category, which provides structured placements with Territory arts organisations for artists aged 18-25.
For the first time, the program will include a 10-year longitudinal study tracking the career development of participants. One placement will also be reserved for a finalist of the Exit Art Award - offering a direct pathway from school achievement to a professional arts career.
"Through NXT Gen Arts we're backing the next generation, while Creative Fellowships will support mid-career and established artists. Together, these initiatives will nurture talent, celebrate diversity and enrich our communities for years to come," Mr Charls added.
In 2024-25, the Arts Grants Program invested $7.849 million in 201 activities, involving 66 artists, 29 arts workers and 106 arts organisations across every region of the NT. The 2025-26 program builds on this success, shaped by direct consultation with the sector, including the 2024 Meeting of Arts Professionals.
Applications for the 2025-26 Arts Grants Program open today through GrantsNT and guidelines will be available at www.nt.gov.au/artsgrants [http://www.nt.gov.au/artsgrants?utm_source=chatgpt.com].
