News & MediaTNA STUFF
12 May – TNA x NSW LGAs Online Session
TNA is hosting an online session for NSW Local Government Arts and Culture teams. TNA will share opportunities to support and advocate for independent artists and organisations in this current context. We will also discuss collective advocacy ahead of the National Cultural Policy submissions deadline.
22 May – TNA AGM 2026
TNA’s Annual General Meeting for 2026 will take place on Friday, 22 May at 1pm–1.30pm (AEST) on Zoom. Learn how TNA worked to support our sector in 2025. Everyone is welcome to attend. You can access our AGM documents – which includes our Annual Report for 2025.
29 May – Act Up: TNA’s Victorian Performing Arts Forum 2026
Our Victorian Performing Arts Forum returns this May to the Melbourne Fringe Common Rooms. This year, we’re focusing on advocacy and collective action. What initiatives and advocacy work are we already doing? What are some ways that we can work collectively to achieve shared aims? Registrations start from $20 for indies, with a 30% discount for members. Registrations close 21 May.
NATIONAL STUFF
8 May – Hey Mate: Getting Organised as a Creative
Free workshop on using straightforward tools to help reduce stress, stay on top of your work, and build systems that support your creativity.
8 May – State Theatre Company South Australia SPARK EOIs
For SA artists and companies to present work for a two-week season. Artists receive mentorship, in-kind production and technical support, $3,500 for design materials, plus 100% of the box office.
10 May – Performing Lines Kolyang Program 2026 Mentorship EOIs (WA)
For emerging-mid career performance makers to connect with industry professionals. Successful participants work one-on-one with a mentor across two paid sessions. Mentees and mentors are paid $150 per session.
11 May – CreateSA Richard Llewellyn Deaf and Disability Grants (SA)
Supports the development and presentation of arts projects by organisations and artists who are D/deaf and/or disabled. Up to $3,000 for professional development, $10,000 for individuals, and $25,000 for orgs and groups.
13 May – Office for Youth’s Youth Advocacy and Support Grant
Two-year program for an org or a consortium of orgs to partner with the Office for Youth to help shape effective, inclusive and practical youth engagement with the Australian Government.
15 May – WorkSafe Community Sponsorship
For a community event or activity to be sponsored by WorkSafe. Raise awareness of and increase positive regard for WorkSafe. Reduce workplace harm and improve outcomes for injured workers.
15 May – Studio1 PITCH LAB (QLD)
Week-long intensive for independent dance artists, with Dance Makers Collective’s Co-Director Miranda Wheen. Pitch and test new ideas. Artists are paid $750 for their participation.
15 May – Studio1 Testing Site (QLD)
For artists to present their work and develop a showreel with a photographer and videographer. Artists receive a $1,000 honorarium.
15 May – La Trobe University Theatre/Archaeology Master Thesis Research
La Trobe University is conducting research on the use of theatre and performance as a tool for the presentation of archaeological data. They are hoping to learn about current depictions of historical themes in theatrical performance, including trends in research for the purposes of accuracy and authenticity. Performers and theatre practitioners can fill in a 15-minute survey.
16 May – Cavendish Arts Science Fellowship at Girton College
One-year fellowship for artists to explore new approaches and ways of thinking through engaging with scientists and beyond. Artists with no previous experience of working with scientists are encouraged to apply. The fellow receives: a stipend of £10,000, accommodation and meals in Cambridge, a production budget of £10,000, and a travel budget of up to £3,000.
21 May – Creative Learning Funding (WA)
Up to $60,000 for projects and programs that connect WA arts orgs and artists with schools. Use arts-based practice to engage students in their learning beyond arts curriculum areas.
21 May – Brand X Alternate Channels Residency EOIs
For experimental artists from the Greater Sydney region to develop live work. Artists receive 5-days of creative development, $1,300 fee, a $550 project stipend, and an invite-only industry showing. The artist will receive further support after the residency.
24 May – Consultations for A New National Cultural Policy
The Australian Government is developing a new National Cultural Policy to shape the future direction of the creative and cultural sector. Building on Revive, the new policy will continue to be structured around the five pillars: First Nations First, A Place for Every Story, Centrality of the Artist, Strong Cultural Infrastructure, and Engaging the Audience. Read the public consultation paper and provide feedback in a written submission. TNA will be making a submission to the National Cultural Policy consultation—you can contribute to our submission by sharing your thoughts in a short survey by this Friday, 8 May.
24 May – Utp Deep Dive EOIs
For creative practitioners connected to Western Sydney to get new eyes on works in progress. Present at feedback sessions and receive an artist fee of $260.
25 May – Create NSW Creative Steps New Work
$10,000 to $75,000 for NSW artists to develop and present new work. Applicants are encouraged to drive and develop partnerships with arts and cultural orgs to support their new works.
26 May – Accessible Arts’ Access Ideas and Insights: Growing Inclusive Audiences
Free panel discussion on how arts orgs can expand access and deepen audience relationshipsin programming, decision-making, and more.
29 May – ISPA Global Fellowship 2027
For mid-career leaders in performing arts to increase their international networks. Participants receive one-year ISPA membership, full pass registration to the ISPA 2027 New York Congress, and a travel subsidy which may include per diem, flights, and accommodation.
1 June – Bundanon’s Artists in Residence
Up to three-week residencies for artists and groups. The residency is free, but artists are responsible for their own travel, material, and meals.
2 June – Australia–Japan Foundation Grants 2026–2027
Between $50,000 and $150,000 for activities that expand Japanese literacy in Australia and/or an understanding of Australia in Japan. A key priority is also arts, culture, sport, and youth engagement.
2 June – Cité internationale des arts Residency
$15,000 grant and a three-month residency at the Cité internationale des arts in Paris. The residency provides accommodation and studio space. The artist must make their own travel arrangements.
2 June – Creative Australia Fellowships
$80,000 to support established artists and arts workers. Undertake activity and professional development for one to two years.
2 June – Creative Australia National Arts and Disability Awards
Celebrates the work and achievement of d/Deaf artists and artists with disability. $50,000 for established artists with a significant career, and $20,000 for early-career artists.
2 June – Playing Australia Project Investment
Funding costs associated with touring to regional and remote areas. There is no limit on the amount that can be requested. Touring activity must be confirmed prior to seeking investment.
16 June – Westpac Social Change Fellowship
$50,000 and mentorship for social entrepreneurs/leaders to develop skills, leadership capabilities and networks. Individuals should be leaders in orgs tackling a social issue that affects the wellbeing of Australians.
23 June – Creative Australia Asia Pacific Arts Awards 2027
Recognising artists and organisations engaging across the Asia Pacific. $25,000 awarded in each category: Impact, Innovation, Inspire (individual/group), Inspire (organisations), Connect, Legacy. There is an information session on 11 May.
23 June – Ian Potter Cultural Trust Emerging Artist Grant
Up to $15,000 for emerging artists to undertake professional development overseas.
29 June – Create SA Grants
The June round for CreateSA grants open this month. Up to $15,000 for professional and market development, up to $50,000 for touring support, and funding to support the development and presentation of new work.
1 August – GUTS Dance Desert Hothouse Saturday Pass
A day of public talks and curated conversations, informal gatherings, and a shared meal during GUTS Dance’s event. The full-day program will be curated by Erica McCalman, with more info coming in the next month. Tiered registration starts from $90.
A New Approach: The Big Picture Report
A New Approach has released its analysis on government investment in arts and culture in Australia between 2007–08 and 2023–24. On a GDP basis, Australia is spending around one-quarter less than its OECD peers on ‘recreation, culture and religion’.
Support Act Creative Industries Hub
Support Act has launched their new Creative Industries Hub, built specifically for people working across the creative industries and the arts. Access the Support Act Wellbeing Helpline and learn skills for better mental health and wellbeing.
Culture Counts Arts & Culture Data Collection Template
A template for organisations that provides a set of core metrics to track what goes into your projects and what they deliver. Gain insights into your organisation’s activities and cultural influence.
ICDA Gen AI: Guide for Not-for-Profits
Institute of Community Directors Australia has released resources on generative AI including a guide and template on developing an AI governance framework for organisations.
VICTORIAN STUFF
10 May – Maribyrnong City Council Triennial Arts Partner Funding (2026-2029)
Multi-year organisational funding for arts orgs based in Maribyrnong or with a history of delivery in Maribyrnong. Up to $45,000 per year for three years.
10 May – Let’s See What Sticks 2026 EOIs
For artists with a performative improvisation practice to take part in an improvisation series. Participation will involve a one-hour performance with other artists. Honorarium provided for all performers.
10 May – Workshops with Wit: ‘Move with Power’
Pay-what-you-feel workshop for performers with an interest in body-centric theatre practice. Discover new ways of moving to enhance your stage presence.
11 May–15 June – Back to Back Theatre NIGHT SCHOOL 2026
Practical workshops in acting, filmmaking and contemporary dance, including: Acting Skills For Everyday Life; and Movement For Body Awareness, Self Care and Compassion. Each delivered as a two-class series. $60 per workshop.
11 May – Surf Coast Shire 2026 Creative Initiative Project EOIs
For creatives to develop a new community arts project. Council have allocated a budget of $12,000 for the delivery of this project. Work with the community to develop a creative project, facilitate workshops and deliver a final artistic outcome.
12 May – Yarra City Arts Artist Wellbeing and Professional Development EOIs
Subsidised professional development program for early and mid‑career artists. Learn how to acknowledge colonial time, nurture connection, and prioritise relational ways of working that focus on the wellbeing of artists.
12–13 May – Showcase Victoria
The State’s two-day performing arts market has launched tickets and released their program. Tiered registration, starting from $137.
19 May – Darebin Arts Festival and Community Event Grants EOIs
Up to $5,000 for community events during the 2026 Darebin FUSE Festival. Festival priorities include First Peoples First, local artists, communities and venues, and activating places across Darebin.
29 May – Gasworks Script Lab EOIs
Free playwrighting development program with Melbourne Writers Theatre. Completed scripts will be shared with the public at Showcase Nights in October.
25 May – Arts Access Victoria Lesley Hall Arts and Disability Scholarship 2026
$5,000 grant for Victorian Deaf and Disabled artists and advocates. Applicants must be able to show past works that use art to challenge assumptions about disability.
31 May – VABT ‘May the Fuel Be With You’ Vouchers
With rising fuel costs, the Victorian Actors’ Benevolent Trust are offering $50 Woolworths vouchers. For professional members of Victoria’s performing arts community with three years’ industry experience.
15 June – Southside Festival EOIs
Two opportunities to present as part of Southside Festival. $25,000 for local artists and orgs to present work. $25,000 for artists and orgs to present a creative project that will actively engage with a large cohort of the Frankston municipality community.
Footscray Arts Co-Working Space
Footscray Arts is offering affordable coworking space for freelancers, not-for-profits, and small businesses. Prices start from $380/month.
CYPA STUFF (Children, Young People and the Arts)
Inger Rice Foundation Funding
Up to $7,000 in funding for programs that support the development of relationships between young children aged 0–5 years and their families/carers. There is no deadline.
17 May – Carclew Capacity Building Grants
$20,000 for small-to-medium youth arts organisations in SA to strengthen the systems, leadership and partnerships that create long-term sustainability.
29 May – Performance Applications ASSITEJ World Congress 2027
The ASSITEJ World Congress is happening in Seoul next year. Companies and artists can present work for, with, and by children and young people. The deadline has been extended to the end of the month.
1 June – The International Festival of Performing Arts and Culture for Young Audiences Italy
Present at the Visioni di futuro, visioni di Teatro Festival in Bologna. Work should be for 0–6 years. The festival offers $1,000 EUR per performance and basic tech equipment and support. Artists must cover their own travel and accommodation.
4 June – Blackbird Foundation Protostars Grants
$1,000 for young people aged 18–25 to work on their passion projects.
CAPT STUFF (Circus & Physical Theatre)
8 May – Gasworks Circus Showcase
Showcasing Gasworks’ professional development program for CaPT artists. Artists present 15-minute excerpts of their work and receive feedback.
11 May – Circus Centre Melbourne Company in Residence EOIs
For circus companies to undertake a residency at Circus Centre Melbourne. Receive access to space, workplace infrastructure, sector connection and visibility.
8 May – CaPT in National Cultural Policy Submissions
TNA will be making a submission to the National Cultural Policy consultation process on behalf of the broader performing arts sector. We’re particularly interested in hearing from the CaPT sector. Contribute to TNA’s submission by sharing your thoughts in our short survey by this Friday.
INDUSTRY GOSS
- After more than three decades at its helm, Susan Provan will be stepping down as Festival Director and CEO at Melbourne International Comedy Festival later this year.
- Amy Morcom is finishing up as Executive Director at Force Majeure.
- Kate Champion will be stepping down from her role as Artistic Director at Black Swan State Theatre Company at the end of 2026.
- Suzanne Daley has been appointed the new Executive Director at Chunky Move.
- Kate Eltham is stepping down as Co-CEO and Business Director at BlakDance. Trudy Gunston steps into the role of Acting Co-CEO.
- Gemma Robertson has been appointed Executive Producer at Chamber Made.
- James Welsby has been appointed Program Manager at Dancehouse. Maggie Madfox is the new Marketing and Communications Manager at Dancehouse.
- Blu Huang is the new Senior Creative Producer at Multicultural Arts Victoria (MAV). MAV has also appointed Jamie Lewis as their Interim General Manager.
- Zadie Kennedy Mccracken has been appointed Associate Producer at Performing Lines VIC.
- Arts Centre Melbourne have announced that Christa Jonathan (CJ) and Siobhan McGinnity are the 2026 Alter State Associates.
- Monique Nightingale is the new Associate Producer at Cypher Culture.
- Jacq Driscoll is the new Associate Producer at Northern Rivers Performing Arts.
- Sen Vanderzalm is the new Producer and Operations Manager at APHIDS.
POSITIONS VACANT
Office & Operations Coordinator, Adelaide Fringe (SA). Apply by 8 May.
Venue Operations Manager, Next Wave (VIC). Apply by 11 May.
Production Logistics Coordinator, Adelaide Festival (SA). Apply by 11 May.
Junior, General & Senior Technicians, Geelong Arts Centre (VIC). EOIs by 13 May.
Coordinator, Health & Safety, Arts Centre Melbourne (VIC). Apply by 13 May.
Production Manager, Australasian Dance Collective (QLD). Apply by 14 May.
Event Producer, City Recital Hall (NSW). Apply by 14 May.
Festival Director (2026–27), Nati Frinj Biennale (VIC). Apply by 15 May.
Senior Project Coordinator, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Arts, CreateSA (SA). Apply by 15 May.
Senior Producers, YIRRAMBOI (VIC). Apply by 24 May.
Events Casuals, and Senior Events Casuals, The University of Melbourne Student Union Inc (VIC). Apply by 26 May.