North Sydney Council is proud to launch its 2026 Creative Spaces Program, reaffirming its commitment to nurturing cultural participation and creative production across the local government area.
This year's program features two standout residency streams: the Coal Loader Residency, inviting artists to engage with a vibrant sustainability-focused community across the heritage-listed site in Waverton, and two dedicated First Nations Residencies on Cammeraygal land (Milsons Point), offering dedicated cultural and creative support for First Nations creatives in a culturally safe and respectful environment. These residencies sit alongside a broader offering of studio spaces for up to 11 artists or collectives working across visual arts, writing, design, curation, digital media, performance and more.
Residencies will be hosted across three creative hubs: Primrose Park Artist Studios in Cremorne, the Coal Loader Artist Studio in Waverton, and Alfred Street Artist Studios in Milsons Point. Each location offers dedicated studio space and facilities designed to support a wide range of disciplines.
Mayor Zoë Baker said the program reflects Council's long-term investment in the creative life of North Sydney:
"The Creative Spaces Program is a key part of Council's vision to expand access to places where creativity can thrive. By investing in dedicated studios and professional support, we're empowering artists and strengthening North Sydney's identity as a place where cultural participation and creative production are actively supported."
Participants in the Creative Spaces Program receive a fully or partially subsidised studio space for 12 months, along with paid opportunities to engage with the community through artist talks, panels and presentations. They also gain access to a Council-funded professional development program designed to support their growth and visibility.
Coal Loader Residency - Creative Collaboration with Community
Located at the Coal Loader Centre for Sustainability, this residency is designed for artists and collectives who are passionate about collaboration, participation and socially engaged practice. Council is seeking practitioners who want to become embedded within the Coal Loader community - a vibrant network of individuals and volunteer groups committed to sustainability and shared learning.
This fully subsidised residency invites artists to co-create with local groups, explore participatory approaches, and contribute to a culture of creative exchange. Artists will receive support including artist fees, professional development, community introductions and Council-led promotion. The residency delivers on Council's strategic commitment to fostering partnerships and strengthening community connection through the arts.
First Nations Residencies - Led by Community, Grounded in Culture
Two First Nations creative residencies are available at the Alfred Street Artist Studios on Cammeraygal land (Milsons Point). These fully subsidised residencies support the inclusion of First Nations-led programming within Council's creative initiatives, providing space for artists or collectives to develop new work, continue existing projects, and engage with community through culturally grounded creative practice.
With support from Cammeraygal Elder Auntie Jeanie Moran and a Council partnership with Yamaji Wajarri, Dutch and English designer and artist Nicole Monks from First Nations-led organisation mili mili, residents will have access to a culturally safe, respectful and supportive environment, as well as additional mentoring opportunities.
mili mili founder Nicole Monks has said of this inaugural First Nations Residency program:
"It's wonderful to see creating Community is embedded in this residency from the beginning."
Artists interested in applying are encouraged to contact the Arts & Culture team to discuss how Council can support their cultural safety and creative goals.
Applications for the 2026 Creative Spaces Program close on 30 November. Creative practitioners from all disciplines are encouraged to apply.
