News & MediaTNA STUFF
28 April – Applications Open for TNA Leadership
The Board of Theatre Network Australia is seeking applications for leadership, moving from a Co-CEO model to a single CEO. The TNA CEO will lead the organisation’s approach of being a true champion and connector for this sector.
TNA’s CaPT Insurance Deep Dives
We are aware that affordable and fit-for-purpose insurance is a massive challenge for the Circus and Physical Theatre sector. We’ve released a two-part resource on our website for CaPT orgs and artists to navigate this challenge.
Federal Election Email Templates for Engaging Your MP
The federal election has been called. Now is the time to ensure that arts and culture remain a national priority. TNA has a series of email templates to help advocate for stronger investment in the arts. We also have published tips for engaging with politicians on arts policy.
Members Only: Airtable for Arts Organisations Webinar Recording
TNA ran a one-hour webinar introducing Airtable. This user-friendly database and CRM tool can help arts organisations streamline their operations, manage contacts, and track projects easily. We have a recording available for members.
Join TNA as a Member: Strengthen the Performing Arts Sector
TNA membership is open to individuals and organisations. By joining TNA, you actively contribute to a stronger, healthier, more connected, and more equitable performing arts ecosystem – while accessing valuable services and resources. It costs $36/year for individuals. For organisations, fees are tiered by turnover and start from $60/year.
NATIONAL STUFF
7 April – Outback Theatre for Young People EOIs
For theatre and multidisciplinary artists to work with the company in 2025 and 2026. The company works with remote and regional NSW young people and communities. Artists’ accommodation and travel costs are covered. Send an email to narelle@outbacktheatre.com if you are not able to meet this deadline but would like to be considered. They will continue to accept EOIs throughout April.
7 April – Paul Ramsay Foundation First Nations Targeted Grant Round
Up to $500,000 to support regional and remote First Nations peoples and communities. Open to First Nations-led organisations in TAS, NT, the Torres Strait, and regional and remote SA and QLD.
7 April – STRUT Dance x The Blue Room Theatre 600 SECONDS EOIs (WA)
For artists to create and perform a short 10-minute work. Artists receive $500, mentorship and rehearsal space at Blue Room.
7–14 April – Arts on Tour Free Online Sessions: Greening Production-Making
For directors, creatives and production departments to integrate emissions reduction strategies in their practices. In April, topics include Carbon Foot Printing and Impact Reduction, and Innovation and New Technology.
8 April – Australian Performing Arts Exchange (APAX) 2025 Applications
APAX will take place on 11–15 August in Garramilla/Darwin, during Darwin Festival. Artists, producers and orgs can apply to share their work. There will be pitches, showcase performances, artist profiles, company updates and roundtable discussions.
8 April – The ANZ Community Foundation Grants
Up to $30,000 for community projects that align with ANZ’s focus areas. This includes initiatives that target disadvantage, inequity, or marginalisation.
10 April – Performance Space Experimental Performance Fellowship (NSW)
$30,000 for an artist or collective. To undertake year-long research and development for a new project, body of work, or a program of professional development.
10 April – Riverside Theatres Staging the World 2025 (NSW)
10-day intensive skills development for artists of colour working in spoken word, acting, and playwrighting. Work with and receive mentorship from established creatives. Artists receive $600 for participating in the program and $300 for participating in a spoken word evening.
10 April – Arrow Energy’s Brighter Futures Grants
Up to $5,000 for activities that make a positive contribution to communities. Focus areas include heath, safety and wellbeing, community connection, educational opportunities, and more.
13 April – Sydney Fringe Artist Registrations
For artists to present at Sydney Fringe on 1–30 September. Tiered registrations start at $150.
14 April – 2026 Seasons at Dancehouse
Inviting proposals from independent dance artists for Dancehouse’s 2026 seasons. This can be theatrical works, lectures, public programs, installations, and performance experiments. Artists receive $3,000, plus a presentation fee based on the expected earned income. Additional travel and accommodation support for regional and interstate artists.
14 April – Melbourne Fringe x Dancehouse 2025
For new or existing live dance projects to be presented at Dancehouse during this year’s Melbourne Fringe. Artists receive $1,000, or up to $2,500 if selected for a Fringe Commission. Plus 50:50 box office split, rehearsal space, and in-kind support.
14 April – PAC Australia Tour Producer Training
For producers, artists, and companies looking to build national tour development skills. You must have some touring experience. Online sessions with one in-person intensive at APAX in Darwin. Costs start from $363.
15 April – Make-Shift x STRUT Dance Short Makes EOIs (WA)
Choreographic artists receive studio space, technical support, and 10-15 minutes presentation time.
15 April – ICDA First Nations Board Governance Training Program (VIC)
Fully funded program for a First Nations Australian in VIC to develop governance skills and work towards joining a public sector board. Includes in-person workshop, webinars, and mentoring circles. There is an info session on 8 April.
15 April – Multicultural Community Festivals Small Grants (TAS)
Up to $5,000 to hold events that support new and emerging culturally and linguistically diverse communities. ‘New and emerging’ is defined as communities who have recently settled or are in the process of establishing themselves in TAS.
15 April – Global Leaders Institute Global Arts Prize (US)
International recognition of innovation in the world of culture. $60,000 USD is awarded between two initiatives, regardless of size, location, or focus area. For their contributions to the future of culture.
15 April & 13 May – Creative Australia Fundraising Knowledge Series
A free online series on arts fundraising. On 15 April, Fundraising Strategies for the Future with AI, with Donor Search (US). On 13 May, To Get Funding, Be Fundable and Findable, with Might Ally (Malaysia).
16 April – APAM Info Session #3
PAC Australia’s third information session on APAM 2026. It will focus on how to apply to be part of the official APAM program. Applications open 9 April.
20 April – Abbotsford Convent Studio Residency
Two residencies on offer at Abbotsford Convent in VIC. $7,000 for six months for early career artists; $3,500 for three months for performance artists.
21 April – Performing Lines National Producers Platform
For emerging producers to undertake 10-weeks of learning online and in-person, including attending APAX in Darwin. Honorariums and travel costs provided. Participants will receive paid, 5-week full-time industry placement with a partner organisation in 2026.
30 April – Australia-Korea Foundation Grants 2025–26
Up to $50,000 per year for projects or activities that advance Australia’s engagement with Korea. This includes exchanges, partnerships, and collaborations in arts and culture.
30 April – Create NSW 24/25 Cultural Access Priority Area Projects
$10,000 to $100,000 for individuals and organisations that are led by and/or support specific communities.
5 May – National Library of Australia Creative Arts Fellowship 2026
Supports the development of creative works inspired by the National Library’s collections. This year, the Fellowship is $35,000 for a writer, in any literary genre, to develop new work. This can include writing for performance.
5 May – Create NSW 2-Year Multi-Year Funding (NSW)
$60,000 to $200,000 per year for NSW arts and cultural orgs.
5 May – The Arts and Disability Associated Plan Implementation Advisory Group EOIs
For d/Deaf and disabled artists and arts workers to help implement activities under Equity: the Arts and Disability Associated Plan. The advisory group will provide advice to the Australian Government on issues affecting d/Deaf and disabled artists. Members will be paid for their time.
6 May – Australia-Japan Foundation 2025-26 Grants
$10,000 to $50,000 for projects that advance Australia’s engagement with Japan. Supports people-to-people and institutional links through programs and partnerships. Priority areas include society, culture, and sport.
10 May – Qantas Regional Grants
Funding for communities and projects that benefit regional areas. Applicants must demonstrate a measurable socioeconomic impact.
12 May – Richard Llewellyn Deaf and Disability Grants (SA)
Grants for Deaf and Disabled artists and arts workers in SA. $3,000 to $10,000 for professional development, $10,000 for individual projects, and $25,000 for projects by orgs and groups.
13 May – Creative Australia Company Director Capability Fund
$6,000 for arts and cultural orgs to enhance governance capabilities. $3,000 for artists and arts workers who are under-represented in board roles to participate in board training.
25 June – Australian Research Council Linkage Projects
$50,000 and $300,000 per year for projects which initiate or develop long term strategic research alliances. Between higher education organisations and research end-users. To apply advanced knowledge to problems.
July – The Australian-American Fulbright Commission
For Australian citizens across various academic/career stages to pursue research at a U.S. institution.
Creative Workforce Scoping Study
Service and Creative Skills Australia (SaCSA) and Creative Australia have released the full report on the long-standing workforce issues in the creative sector. There are summaries of findings and insights for the performing arts on pp 46-47 and 69-71 of the full report.
CreateSA ‘A Place to Create’ Policy
CreateSA, formerly known as Arts South Australia, has released their new 10-year policy for the arts, culture and creative industries.
Tracking Racism in the Arts & Creative Sectors: Incident Report Survey
Diversity Arts Australia has developed a document to track incidents of racial discrimination in the creative sectors. Input will help them advocate for systemic change, sharing insights with government and the arts and creative industries.
April–Oct – ICDA Advanced Leadership for Community Chairs
Online course to build knowledge and skills in the chairs of community orgs. For leaders who are already serving in the role of chair or aspiring to be. Costs $720.
VICTORIAN STUFF
7–27 April – Free Tech Workshops by Bronwyn Pringle
A series of workshops to up-skill Melbourne’s entertainment technical crews. Bookings are open for: Mech Work for Non-Mechs, QLab: Basics to Intermediate, QLab: Advanced, and Lighting for Non-Lighting Techs. There are more workshops throughout April.
12 April – BIPOC Creative Access ‘Artistic Intelligence Development’
Free workshop and community event that explores creative access and inner child play.
At Darebin Arts, delivered by the BIPOC Creative Access Collective.
14 April – LGBTIQA+ Organisational Development Grants
Up to $40,000 for LGBTIQA+ organisations and groups seeking to build their capacity and strengthen their long-term viability.
17 April – Multicultural Festivals and Events Program
Up to $50,000 for not-for-profit groups to hold multicultural festivals and events.
29 April – Arts Access Victoria AGM
Join the organisation’s Annual General Meeting on Zoom. RSVPs are essential.
Schizy Inc Mojo 2025 Creative Development Workshops
Running workshops in spoken word, theatre, cabaret/musical theatre in April. In the leadup to the Mojo Gala Event for World Schizophrenia Day in May. Email heidi@schizy.org.
CYPA STUFF (Children, Young People, and the Arts)
10–17 April – Arts Access Victoria Maker Space Dandenong (VIC)
For young Deaf and Disabled people aged 18–25 to take part in free creative workshops. During the school holidays.
15 April – Concept Pitching at INAF25 (Norway)
Inviting companies to pitch innovative performing arts concepts for young audiences, which overcome language barriers and enhance accessibility.
21 April – ILBIJERRI Ensemble Open Access EOIs
For Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander aspiring theatre-makers aged 18–35. Six-month term of workshops, intensives and collaborations. Participants receive $1,550 for the presentation of their work at the end of the six months.
28 April – ATYP National Studio
For young playwrights aged 18–26 to spend a week in rural NSW. Writers receive mentorship and masterclasses to develop a short piece over the week. Out-of-pocket costs are $500, but if participants can’t afford it, they might be eligible for a full scholarship. Flights, meals and accommodation covered.
2 May – MyState Foundation Grants (TAS)
$1,000 to $10,000 for not-for-profits that work towards empowering the youth of Tasmania.
16 May – Youth Off the Streets National Scholarships
$6,000 for educational or training goals in academia, trade, performing arts, and more. For students aged 16–21 who have a clear need for financial assistance.
31 July – International Productions at bibu (Sweden)
Looking for performances to present during the bibu festival in Helsingborg, in May 2026. Productions should be aimed at audiences between 0–19 years.
CAPT STUFF (Circus and Physical Theatre)
Creative Victoria 50 Perry Street Update
Creative Victoria has provided TNA with an update for the CaPT sector:
The Victorian Government’s procurement process to secure a new operator for 50 Perry Street is currently being finalised with the intent for a new operator to be in place by mid-2025. While the procurement process is underway, from 4 March until the new tenancy arrangements are confirmed, the facility will not be available for hire. Creative Victoria will share updates on the new tenancy arrangements and the opportunities for hire of the facility will be provided as they become available. Read more about the EOI process for 50 Perry Street.
3–5 May – Xena Circus Festival (VIC)
A 2.5-day intensive training program exclusively for women in Mildura. Includes specialised workshops in tumble, acro, juggling, ying trapeze, aerials and more. Cost: $350 for the two days.
28–30 May – Circostrada Fresh Street #5 (UK)
The European Network for contemporary circus and outdoor arts is holding its international conference in May this year. Registrations are open, and the pre-programming has been released.
Spaghetti Circus ‘Benefits of Circus Impact’ Report
Spaghetti Circus has released a report by Patternmakers, which looks at the positive effects of circus. The report focuses on Spaghetti Circus’ work, and the wellbeing of children and young people in the Northern Rivers region.
INDUSTRY GOSS
- Kate Gould has announced she will depart Brisbane Powerhouse as CEO/Artistic Director to take up the role of CEO at the Adelaide Festival Centre.
- Justin Marshman is the new Executive Producer at Rooke.
- Emily Steel has been appointed the new Artistic Director of South Australian company Theatre Republic.
- Jen Leys will be stepping into the role of Senior Producer at Performing Lines WA, with Eleanor Weller-Brown appointed as the new Production Coordinator.
- Cecile Lucas is finishing her role at Performing Lines. She has been appointed the new Programming Producer for APAX and APAM at PAC Australia.
- David Hallberg has been reappointed as Artistic Director of the Australian Ballet. Claire Spencer AM has been appointed the new Executive Director at the Australian Ballet.
- Celia White is stepping down as Artistic Director at Circus Vulcana.
- Brad Spolding has been appointed Head of Performing Arts Programming at Bunjil Place.
- Keri Elmsly is stepping down as Executive Director of Programming at ACMI.
- Ashleigh Baxter is the new Executive Director of Eastern Riverina Arts.
- Genevieve Trace finishes as Executive Director at Metro Arts.
Artistic Director & Co-CEO, Platform Arts (VIC). Apply by 7 April.
Creative Director/CEO, Gasworks Arts Park (VIC). Apply by 7 April.
Production and Operations Coordinator, Chunky Move (VIC). Apply by 7 April.
Audience Engagement Executive, Bell Shakespeare (NSW). Apply by 9 April.
Systems and Office Administrator, Melbourne Fringe (VIC). Apply by 13 April.
Marketing Coordinator, Circa (QLD). Apply by 13 April.
Programs & Partnerships Manager, Eastern Riverina Arts (NSW). Apply by 14 April.
Operations Manager (Maternity Leave Cover), Women’s Circus (VIC). Apply by 15 April.
Producer, ATYP (NSW). Apply by 23 April.
Artistic Director & CEO, Circus Vulcana (QLD). Apply by 27 April.
Production Manager, Sydney Opera House (NSW). Apply by 27 April.
Board of Directors (Voluntary), HotHouse Theatre (VIC). EOIs by 30 April.