Funding available for arts and cultural creatives

Published: 17th March 2025. (Note: information was correct at date of publication but may have since been changed or superseded.)

Grants up to $12,000 available for local creative projects
Applications close 27 April 2025
Funding supports arts, culture and regional economic growth

Funding Support for Local Creatives

Artists and cultural creatives in the Cairns region are invited to apply for funding through the Regional Arts Development Fund (RADF) Major Round Two, now open for applications.

The program, offering grants of up to $12,000 per project, is a joint initiative by the Queensland Government and Cairns Regional Council, aimed at enhancing the region’s arts and cultural landscape.

Supporting a Creative Community

Cairns Mayor Amy Eden highlighted RADF’s importance in fostering a vibrant and creative community.

“Cairns already has a growing reputation as a regional creative hub and we want to continue to grow that status,” she said.

“Creativity is an important and sought after skill and these grants help to engage our vibrant arts community through supporting a wide range of creative projects that bring social benefits and economic rewards.”

A Statewide Arts Impact

Queensland’s Minister for Education and the Arts, John-Paul Langbroek, praised RADF’s long-standing success in delivering arts and cultural opportunities across the state.

“The Crisafulli Government’s multi-year RADF investment provides greater funding certainty for 59 regional councils, streamlined program management and red tape reduction, while boosting the state’s vibrant arts and cultural scene,” Minister Langbroek said.

“Each year, RADF programs reach more than one million people across Queensland, securing local arts experiences and cultural tourism opportunities in regional areas, as well as supporting local artists in the lead up to Brisbane 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games.

"For 34 years, Arts Queensland has partnered with regional councils to co-invest in local arts initiatives that generate jobs, community engagement and help boost local economies. The Crisafulli Government will continue to support these vital collaborations.”