CIAF’s future secured to 2030

The future of one of Australia’s premier First Nations-led arts and cultural events has now been firmly secured through to 2030.

Cairns Regional Council has confirmed long-term support for the Cairns Indigenous Art Fair (CIAF) by approving a new four-year Resource and Performance Agreement with CIAF, providing $890,000 in cash and in-kind assistance between 2026 and 2030.

The agreement ensures CIAF will continue to be presented at its much-celebrated home, the Tanks Arts Centre, following the successful 2025 return to the venue.

An independent economic assessment commissioned by Tourism and Events Queensland found the 2025 event generated more than $4.46 million in direct and incremental expenditure for the Cairns region economy, reaffirming CIAF’s strong cultural and economic impact.

Under the new agreement, CIAF will focus on strengthening operations, expanding digital capabilities, growing international partnerships and increasing revenue through sponsorships and grants.

Council’s support aligns with the Corporate Plan 2025-2030, including goals to optimise tourism, strengthen community and cultural participation, and position Cairns as one of Northern Australia’s leading arts and cultural hubs.

With visitation now exceeding 14,000 people annually and a growing national and global reputation, the renewed partnership guarantees stability for CIAF and supports its continued role in celebrating, preserving and promoting Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander culture in Far North Queensland.