Applications open for Regional Arts Development Fund grants

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Published: 10th October 2022

Fraser Coast artists and groups can apply now for grants through the latest round of the Regional Arts Development Fund.

“The RADF is a partnership between the Queensland Government through Arts Queensland and Fraser Coast Regional Council,” Cr David Lewis said.

“The fund promotes the role and value of arts, culture and heritage as key drivers of a diverse and inclusive community and strong regions.

“Previous grants have helped theatre interns develop their skills, stage a concert for the elderly and socially isolated, and for activities and exhibitions for NAIDOC Week.

“The RADF grants ensure that the Fraser Coast has a rich and vibrant arts community.”

More information about the RADF grants, including the categories and guidelines, is available here.

Minister for the Arts Leeanne Enoch said as part of this successful, long-term collaboration, the Queensland Government will provide $2.13 million for RADF 2022–2023 to a total of 59 local councils, who will contribute a co-investment amount of over $1.9 million.

“Established in 1991, RADF is a long-standing success story between the Queensland Government and regional councils, enabling local artists and arts workers to tell their rich and unique stories, boosting regional employment opportunities and other positive economic outcomes”, Minister Enoch said.

“For 31 years RADF has provided a legacy of creating new art and cultural experiences for Queensland audiences and communities, and a platform for professional development and growth across the regional arts sector.”

Applications will be accepted from individuals, groups, and organisations that:

Develop - (up to $2,000) to build the capacity and develop skills of local, professional or emerging creatives through professional development or concept development.
Share - (up to $10,000) to engage the Fraser Coast community to value, celebrate, share and participate in arts, culture and heritage by supporting projects that strategically promote and celebrate our stories; or focus on community participation in creative experiences.

Priority will be given to applications that:

Support locally produced arts, culture and heritage activities that deliver personal, economic and social benefits within our region.
Invest in professional, career and capacity development opportunities for local practitioners to extend local arts, culture and heritage practice.
Provide opportunities for local communities to participate in and value the role of arts, culture and heritage and its contributions to resilient, diverse and sustainable communities.
Promote the role of arts, culture and heritage to build a strong sense of place and identity.
Encourage innovation and creativity in arts, culture and heritage.
Nurture collaboration and partnerships within and beyond our region to maximise investment and outcomes.

Applications for this round opened today (Monday 10 October) and close on 14 November 2022. Applications for future rounds can be lodged at any time with the last round closing on 14 August 2023.

In August 2022, Council was awarded $49,500 by Arts Queensland for the 2022/23 program which will be combined with $75,000 from Council to create a $124,500 funding pool for grants.

The funds are allocated to a number of programs including $17,000 to fund high calibre arts and cultural experiences and touring initiatives to visit the region; and $20,000 to develop collaborative opportunities for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander arts and cultural practitioners and $50,000 for the RADF grants pool.

To hear from previous recipients talking about how the Regional Arts Development Fund grants have helped them go to https://youtu.be/ypfGeyWr1-s