Funding to help invigorate First Nations art industry

89 First Nations-owned art centres, art fairs, regional hubs and industry service organisations across the country will receive a share of more than $21 million in funding through the Albanese Labor Government’s Indigenous Visual Arts Industry Support Program. 

The program supports a professional, viable and ethical First Nations arts industry - enabling artists to create, earn income, develop professional skills and connect to the art market.

Funding is delivered directly to community-led organisations including art centres (mostly in remote locations), industry service organisations, art fairs and regional arts hubs. 

Minister for the Arts, Tony Burke, said the funding would advance the Government’s strong commitment to put First Nations artists first.

“The first pillar of Revive – Australia’s national cultural policy – is First Nations First. 

“We’re putting these words into practice by strengthening cultural infrastructure to support a thriving First Nations art industry and investing in the next generation of emerging artists and arts workers.

Minister for Indigenous Australians, Linda Burney. said the Indigenous Visual Arts Industry Support program provides important support to the Indigenous arts sector. 

“Arts are central to expressing culture, sharing traditional stories, and connecting to Country. 

“The Indigenous visual arts industry continutes to grow and provide valuable employment and economic opportunities for First Nations peoples across the country.” 

Amongst the recipients are:

• Mirndiyan Gununa Aboriginal Corporation – Mirndiyan Gununa Aboriginal Corporation's Mornington Island Arts is located on Mornington Island in the Gulf of Carpentaria and supports artists from three different language groups whose work reflects their strong connections to land and culture. New project funding will support the development of the Guba Dangka Workspace - Men's Creative Space. 
• Darwin Aboriginal Art Fair –The annual Darwin Aboriginal Art Fair (DAAF) showcases contemporary art from over 60 Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander art centres. New project funding will support DAAF to further promote Indigenous art centres and artists through the development of a new digital platform. The platform will showcase Indigenous artwork, events and exhibitions, share industry opportunities and research, creating a space for storytelling and knowledge sharing.
• Arts Law Centre of Australia (Arts Law) – Arts Law’s Artists in the Black program delivers targeted services to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander artists nationally. New two-year funding will support Arts Law to deliver expert legal advice, seminars and training about protecting Indigenous Cultural and Intellectual Property. They will outline the phases of legislative development and how it is being informed by First Nations people and communities in line with the Australian Government’s commitment to outreach. 

More on the IVAIS program including other funding recipients can be found here.