Closed
Arts and Culture
Up to $12,000

About the Major Grant Round

There are two RADF Major Grant Rounds annually.

The next Major Round opens September and closes October for projects from 1 January 2027.

The Major Grant Round is broad, encompassing and includes all arts streams. This category offers support towards projects and programs that create vibrant arts and cultural experiences, including but not limited to:

  • performances and exhibitions
  • increased skills and professional development opportunities for artists
  • new works that extend artists and art forms
  • community arts and cultural development
  • initiatives that strengthen cultural tourism and enhance cultural programs

Applicants can apply for up to $12,000.

In 2026, Cairns will mark 150 years since its official founding in 1876. All RADF-funded projects delivered in 2026 will feature the official C150 logo identifier alongside our Queensland Government partner logo.

If you wish to align your project with the C150 theme, please indicate this in your application. Please note that alignment with the C150 theme is not a requirement or an assessable criterion for the Major Grant Rounds.


Who can apply?

  • individual professional artists
  • emerging professional artists
  • arts workers
  • cultural workers
  • project coordinators
  • collective/artist-run initiatives & groups. (Note: non-incorporated groups must be auspiced by an incorporated organisation, or an individual with an ABN)
  • incorporated arts and cultural organisation

Before you apply

Applicants must read important information and discuss their project with Council's RADF Liaison Officer before submitting an application.

Read the guidelines and FAQs

Email the RADF Liaison Officer*

*If you would prefer to speak to the RADF Liaison Officer, please call (07) 4032 6603


How to apply

Applications must be completed via Council's online portal.

APPLY NOW

The SmartyGrants Help Guide for Applicants and Applicant Frequently Asked Questions are available to assist you in the online application process.

Last Updated: 14 May 2026

Latest News > All News

Works underway to restore critical water infrastructure

Fast-tracked remediation works are underway to bring two of Council’s largest reservoirs back into service. It will strengthen water storage...

General Updates
12 June 2026

Recycling contamination is increasing costs

Cairns households generate around 50,000 tonnes of waste each year, costing Council approximately $16 million to collect, process and dispose...

Council Projects & Services
11 June 2026

King tides expected from Friday

King tides are expected to affect Cairns this from week, from Friday 12 June through to Saturday 20 June....

General Updates
10 June 2026