6 August 2026
Finocchiaro CLP Government investing more than $7.8 million to support Territory artists, arts workers and arts organisations through 2026-27 Northern Territory Arts Grants Program.
Applications now open for program offering a range of funding opportunities to help Territory creatives develop new work, build skills, purchase equipment and connect with audiences across the Territory and beyond.
Last year, the program supported 200 successful grants, backing 100 arts organisations, 84 artists and 16 arts workers to grow the Territory’s thriving creative sector.
The Finocchiaro CLP Government is investing more than $7.8 million to back Territory artists, arts workers and arts organisations through the 2026-27 Northern Territory Arts Grants Program, creating more opportunities for local creatives to develop their skills, showcase their talent and build sustainable careers.
Applications are now open across a range of grant categories supporting everything from the creation of new work and professional development to specialist equipment, regional and community arts programs, exhibitions and initiatives that connect Territorians with arts and culture.
Minister for Arts, Jinson Charls, said the investment demonstrates the Finocchiaro CLP Government’s commitment to restoring our lifestyle by backing the Territory’s vibrant creative sector.
“The Territory has one of the most unique and diverse arts sectors in Australia, and we’re committed to ensuring our artists, arts workers and organisations have the support they need to thrive,” Minister Jinson said.
“We’re backing Territory talent with more than $7.8 million because investing in the arts means investing in jobs, tourism, stronger communities and preserving the stories that make the Territory unique.
“Whether it’s helping emerging artists take the next step, supporting established organisations to grow, purchasing specialist equipment or taking Territory productions to new audiences, these grants create opportunities right across the Territory.”
The program includes Quick Response Grants, Arts Projects Grants, Arts Equipment Grants, Small Arts Grants, NXT Gen Arts Grants and Artists in Schools Grants, ensuring support is available at every stage of an artist’s career.
Last financial year, the Arts Grants Program delivered strong outcomes across the Territory, supporting 200 successful grants awarded to 100 arts organisations, 84 individual artists and 16 arts workers.
Projects funded through the program included Indigenous textile and design workshops led by Jamilah Mills, Gary Lang Dance Company’s United Kingdom tour of The Other Side of Me, Ciella Williams’ new work Life is Swift, and GUTS Dance’s Desert Hothouse program in Alice Springs.
The program supports the priorities of the NT Arts Strategy 2034 by empowering artists through skills development and employment, connecting Territorians with arts and culture, and enriching communities by celebrating and showcasing Territory creativity.
Ruby Joswig, recent recipient of the NXT Gen Arts Grant, in the conservation lab at MAGNT as part of her materials conservation work placement.
