5 February 2026
Event Funding Program Round 2 applications 2025-26 now open
Round 2 of the 2025-26 Event Funding Program (EFP) is now open, providing further investment in events that drive tourism, support local jobs and strengthen economies across the Northern Territory.
Following strong demand in Round 1, Territory event organisers now have another opportunity to secure funding for festivals, cultural and major sporting events that attract visitors and showcase what makes the NT unique.
Delivered by Tourism and Events NT, the EFP supports events of all sizes across the Territory, from community‑driven festivals and cultural showcases to major sporting competitions that deliver national exposure and strong economic returns.
Round 1 of the 2025-26 program supported iconic events, including the Darwin Comedy Festival, NT Writers Festival, Garrmalang Festival, Barunga Festival, Finke Desert Race, Garma Festival, Chariots of Thunder, and the Darwin Aboriginal Art Fair and Country to Couture.
To assist applicants, an industry briefing and networking event will be held on Thursday 12 February from 5pm in Darwin, with online access available for organisers based elsewhere in the NT. The session will cover event trends, operational insights, alternative funding pathways and practical tips for writing a strong application. Attendees will also have the chance to network and speak directly with the EFP team and presenters.
Event organisers who are considering applying, or who have applied in previous rounds, successfully or otherwise, are strongly encouraged to attend. The briefing is one of several initiatives designed to improve the applicant experience and support high‑quality event outcomes across the Territory.
Round 2 of the Event Funding Program closes at 5pm on Friday 6 March 2026.
For updates, eligibility, or to subscribe to EFP notifications, visit tourismandevents.nt.gov.au here.
Quotes attributable Tourism and Events NT Director of Events, Aimee Luxton:
"The Event Funding Program is a vital part of how we grow tourism, support local jobs and showcase what makes the Territory truly unique. Through Tourism and Events NT, we're supporting events that bring people together, strengthen community pride and deliver real economic benefits right across the NT.
"This program has a single, focused organisation to market the Territory with greater impact, attract visitors' year‑round and deliver stronger returns for local jobs and businesses. The EFP is a key part of that vision."
Quotes attributable to Darwin Fringe Festival Director, Hannah Illingworth:
"Support from Tourism and Events NT has grown Australia's most Northern Fringe Festival into the biggest platform for emerging, independent and experimental artist in the NT. Allowing us to employ more locals, present even more artists and create higher quality experiences for our audiences and community.
"This financial support allows us to focus on collaboration, assuring that more supported opportunities are available for the local creative industries."
