News & MediaTNA STUFF
Listen to Behind the Scenes
In October, Amrit Gill gave an update on TNA’s advocacy in AI and copyright, the National Disability Code of Practice, National Cultural Policy Inquiry, NSW’s Cultural Tax Reform Summit and circus insurance. Our TNA member of the month was Jamie Lewis! Jamie chatted about Sincere Apologies, which showed at Melbourne Fringe, and her own creative practice.
Read TNA’s Submission to the Parliamentary Inquiry into Revive: National Cultural Policy
Recently, Parliament conducted an Inquiry into Revive: National Cultural Policy. It sought feedback on ways to boost the sector’s productivity, and the risks and opportunities emerging technologies pose. TNA’s submission focused on tax reform and shared concerns over the Productivity Commission’s proposal to allow AI to mine copyrighted works without permission. Since then, the Federal Government has definitively ruled out introducing a copyright exemption for AI companies.
NATIONAL STUFF
Darwin Fringe Registrations
Apply to present at Darwin Fringe. There are three streams: Hub, General, and Performance. Tiered registrations start from $100. You can apply for a limited fee waive. Applications close early next year.
7 & 21 Nov – PAC Australia Adaptative Futures
Online sessions for performing arts centres and cultural orgs to help lead on climate solutions. On 7 Nov: Adaptation, the power of storytelling. On 21 Nov: Regeneration, moving beyond neutrality.
8 Nov – Brand X Artist 2 Artist Workshop: Creative Caring
Workshop for artists who want to embed care and creativity within institutional and clinical settings. Integrate care-led methods into your own practice. Cost: $25.
10 Nov – Brisbane City Council Creative Sparks Grants (QLD)
$15,000 for local artists to create and present work within the Brisbane LGA.
10 Nov – Belvoir Balnaves Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Fellowship 2026
Fellowship to create new work. For Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander playwrights and directors. $17,700 commission and a part-time artistic salary across a two-year residency.
11 Nov – International Travel Fund: Market Development
Up to $20,000 to travel to key international market development platforms and gatherings. Priority will be given to PANNZ, ISPA Congress Singapore, and HKPAX in 2026.
12 Nov – Griffin Theatre Company Suzie Miller Award 2026
$30,000 commission, mentorship, and a two-year residency for a mid-career playwright. The playwright should have industry recognition and a record of professionally produced work.
12 Nov – Art & About Sydney 2026 EOIs (NSW)
For local artists and orgs to present creative projects. Projects should respond to Oxford Street and the wider Taylor Square/Darlinghurst precinct. The City of Sydney will provide creative studio space, marketing and production support.
13 Nov – Contemporary Asian Australian Performance ‘Works in Progress’ (NSW)
An event showcasing new works. Performance makers test works in front of an audience and receive peer feedback. Cost: $15.
14 Nov – Regional Arts Australia Practice in Community EOIs
New funding initiative for independent artists working in Community Arts and Cultural Development. $160,000 over two years for artists to co-create meaningful projects in their regional community.
14 Nov – People First Bank Foundation Grants
Up to $20,000 for not-for-profits with projects that strengthen communities. One focus area is helping young people who face barriers to education.
14 Nov – Julia Farr Disability Inclusion Grants (SA)
For initiatives that promote a more inclusive South Australia for people with disability. $20,000 to $100,000 for projects over one to two years.
14 Nov – Griffin Studio 2026 EOIs
For early-career playwrights to expand their approach to making theatre. Artists receive $12,000, attend monthly workshops, and a week-long writing residency.
14 Nov – Australia-Indonesia Institute Grants
Between $20,000 and $75,000 for projects that strengthen the Australia-Indonesia relationship. This could include showcasing Australian and Indonesian collaboration in the arts.
14–16 Nov – Utp Another World Festival
Utp’s inaugural festival in Western Sydney. Explore new ways of being through talks, progress showings and more. On the first day, artists and arts workers can attend the Human Rights in the Arts Symposium. Nithya Nagarajan and Danish Sheikh will give a presentation. Day passes start from $10.
16 Nov – Australian Dance Theatre Expound Residency
Provides up to six weeks of studio time in Lion Arts Factory, and a $30,000 grant. For mid-career/established dance artists with a minimum of ten years’ experience. Artists can focus on research, creative development, or new projects.
17 Nov – Creative Australia ACF Boost 2026
Matched funding of up to $5,000. For independent artists and small groups to run a fundraising campaign through the Australia Cultural Fund in 2026.
18 Nov – Strengthening Communities Multicultural Grants (QLD)
Funding of up to $100,000. For projects that address barriers for people from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds. There is a separate stream for culturally and linguistically diverse young people.
19 Nov – Paul Ramsay Foundation Fellowships
Up to $250,000 for community leaders with projects for stopping disadvantage. Join a national cohort and participate in workshops and retreats over 18 months.
20 Nov – Melbourne International Comedy Festival Printed Program Guide Registrations
Present at Melbourne International Comedy Festival 2026. Tiered registrations start at $375. To be included in the Printed Program Guide, register by the end of the month.
20 Nov – Creative Australia Understanding Collective Protection for Creative Works Webinar
A free webinar on protecting creativity in the age of AI. CSIRO is inventing new protection mechanisms and studies how each protection works, and where it fails. With Dr. Liming Zhu, Research Director at CSIRO.
24 Nov – Biennale CINARS 2026
For artists to present work at The Montreal International Performing Arts Conference. Registrations are $130 CAD.
24 Nov – Accessible Arts Access Ideas and Insights: Disability Leadership
Free panel discussion on disability leadership. With Arts and Disability Network Australia Director Sarah-Mace Dennis. In person at the Sydney Opera House and online.
26 Nov – QTouring Pathfinders EOIs (QLD)
Free week-long professional development in Brisbane for early-career QLD performing arts producers. Regional producers will be supported with accommodation and travel. Brisbane producers receive a $300 stipend.
27 Nov – Arts NT Creative Fellowship Grant (NT)
Up to $50,000 for artists to create a body of work. To support their professional growth and contribute to arts and culture in NT.
28 Nov – Queensland Theatre Company DOOR 3 2026
For QLD independent artists. Develop and present a public reading or staged production. Receive six weeks of space, $5,000, 100% of box office takings, production and technical support, and more.
30 Nov – CALD2LEAD Board Diversity Scholarships
Subsidised scholarships for culturally and linguistically diverse women interested in community leadership. Recipients access the Diploma of Governance and the Certified Community Director course, mentoring and peer networking.
17 Dec – Ibsen Scope Grants 2026
Funding for performing arts projects based on one or more of Henrik Ibsen’s plays. Recipients are invited to the Ibsen Scope Festival in Skien, Norway in 2026.
NFP Self-Review Returns
Not-for-profits with an active ABN and are self-assessing as income tax exempt must lodge a self-review return for 2024-2025. ATO is accepting late lodgements now. If you aren’t sure if your not-for-profit falls into this category, call ATO.
A Climate for Art Symposium 2025 Recordings
Recordings available from ACFA Symposium held earlier this year. Listen to Angharad-Wynne-Jones on orientation, Market Forces on targeting finance, and Erica McCalman on taking a worldview.
Arts on Tour x Theatre Green Book Australia: The Green Circle Report
Read the progress report on the findings so far. The Green Circle initiative supported leading theatre and dance orgs to adopt environmentally sustainable practices.
Creative Workplace Invoice Templates
Creative Workplaces has templates for tax invoicing and regular invoicing. They also have information about invoicing overseas customers.
Creatives Working in Mining and Resources in WA Survey
The University of Canberra wants to learn more about the career paths and skills of creatives in WA’s mining industry. Information from the survey will help them to support creatives better by understanding their choices and contribution to WA’s economy.
International Society for the Performing Arts (ISPA) Session on US Travel
ISPA held an info session for international artists and delegates travelling to and within the United States. Watch the recording.
APAX 2026 in Meanjin/Brisbane and 2025 Recordings
APAX will be held in Meanjin/Brisbane in 7–11 September 2026, aligning with Brisbane Festival. They also have recordings from APAX 2025. Watch Erica McCalman’s conference provocation and Andy Packer’s keynote address at this year’s event.
VICTORIAN STUFF
8 Nov – LGI HOTBED Cymatic Body Research Workshop
Four-hour workshop on sound, resonance, and vibration for movement. With Oisín Ó Manacháin. Cost: $35.
10 Nov – ‘Specials’ Audition EOIs
Play by Kath Duncan which roasts Special Ed is looking for six disabled, d/Deaf, or neurodivergent performers for their six-show season in early 2026. Paid work. ‘Specials’ is confronting and dialogue heavy. For more info and the EOI form, email Kath Duncan superbushpig@hotmail.com.
12 Nov – VCA Music Theatre Development EOIs
For music theatre creators with a work ready for a week-long development process with third year VCA Music Theatre students and staff. Artists receive $1,000 and dramaturgical support.
16 Nov – Red Stitch Graduate 2026 Program
For graduating students to join Red Stitch as full ensemble members for a year. Graduates work on productions across Acting, Directing, Dramaturgy, Design or Stage Management positions.
23 Nov – Arts Centre Melbourne PLAY EOIs
Seeking new public programs for artists and audiences to explore and share ideas together. This could be through workshops, performances, panels, or mentoring. Programs receive up to $4,000 in budget contribution, access to space, production support, and more.
22–23 Nov – L2R Dance Experimental Street Dance Workshop and Battle
Two-hour workshops on experimental dance with MaggZ and Ooshcon at Chunky Move. Cost: $22. On the following day, participants can enter a dance battle. The winner receives a $500 cash voucher.
23 Nov – Melbourne Theatre Company’s MinterEllison Future Directors Initiative 2026
Four Assistant Director positions for Melbourne-based early to mid-career theatre directors. Work along established theatre directors on an MTC production. Assistant Directors are paid a $7,250 fee.
30 Nov – La Mama 2026 Program EOIs
Apply to be part of La Mama’s 2026 programs. There are two sessions for artists to see where work will best fit in the program. 10 Nov: for La Mama’s programs. 13 Nov: for regional applicants interested in La Mama’s Immerse program.
4 Dec – BIPOC Creative Access Collective Disability Oration
Panel discussion and reflection with BIPOC practitioners with disabilities. As part of International Day of People with Disability. Participants can submit questions beforehand that will form part of the discussion. Cost: $20.
15 Dec – Vic Health 2026 Impact Research Grants
Up to $245,000 is available for research projects that focus on systems change, build community involvement, and highlight lived experiences. One of the research themes is how arts and community programs and activities build inclusion and belonging.
Greater Dandenong City Council Grants
Between $3,000 and $15,000 for events to activate public spaces within central Dandenongthroughout the summer. Applications are open until March 2026.
CYPA STUFF (Children, Young People and the Arts)
7 Nov – SA Youth Week Grants 2026 (SA)
Up to $2,500 for not-for-profits to support youth-led events and activities held during SA Youth Week 2026.
16 Nov – FRATZ Festival 2026 Open Call
The international children’s theatre festival will be taking place in Berlin in Oct 2026. They are seeking productions for children aged 0–6 to present at the festival. Accommodation and travel costs, per diems, and meals provided. Fees to be negotiated.
17 Nov – WA Youth Engagement Grants (WA)
Up to $10,000 for projects that support people aged 10–25. Projects should involve them in community life and help them to achieve their goals.
29 & 30 Nov – Ctrl + Alt + Create: Youth Choreographic Workshop Series (VIC)
Workshops on diverse choreographic practices for dancers and actors aged 14–25. With Alisdair Macindoe, Michelle Heaven and Siobhan McKenna. Cost: $65.
CAPT STUFF (Circus & Physical Theatre)
14 Nov – Circus Oz: From the Pram to the World Stage Launch
Celebrating the release of Dr. Jesse Jensen-Kohl’s book on the history of Circus Oz. The launch will be at Circus Centre Melbourne, featuring guest speakers.
Creative Space Hire and Open Training at Circus Centre Melbourne
Circus Centre Melbourne is offering creative space hire and open training for circus professionals. Subsidised rehearsal spaces include the studio, the long room, the square room, and the back room. There is more than 35 hours of open training for circus professionals to train, develop, and connect. Tiered day passes start from $10.80 per day.
Flipside Circus Waterways Circus Camp (QLD)
Four-day intensive program for young First Nations people aged 12+. Connect with top circus trainers and performers and develop new skills. No prior circus experience is required. Participants are paid between $600 and $900 to help cover transport costs and more.
INDUSTRY GOSS
- Kristi Monfries is stepping down as Director and CEO at Liquid Architecture to take up the role of CEO at Multicultural Arts Victoria.
- Kath Fyffe will be stepping down as Executive Director at Polyglot at the end of 2025.
- Joanne Kee has been appointed the new Artistic Director of the Seymour Centre.
- Tasmania’s Festival of Voices has appointed Shaun Rennie as its new Artistic Director.
- At Performing Lines, Jonathan Homsey has been appointed the new Development Manager. Carmen Lai has also been working as the new Associate Producer at Performing Lines VIC.
- Haneen Mahmood Martin has been appointed the new General Manager at Corrugated Iron Youth Arts.
- Lexi Sekuless has been appointed the new Company Manager at Rebus Theatre.
- Hanne Grant has stepped down as Marketing and Comms Manager at Women’s Circus to take up the role of Engagement & Development Manager at Circus Centre Melbourne. Circus Centre Melbourne has also announced Andrew Dyson as the new Casual Rigger, Richard Sullivan as Duty Manager, and Isy Champagne-Chittick as the Venue & Program Coordinator.
- The board and members of Theatre Network NSW (TNN) have taken the difficult decision to cease operations at the end of 2025.
POSITIONS VACANT
Board Director (Voluntary), Outer Urban Projects (VIC). Apply now.
Theatre Technicians (Casual), Chapel Off Chapel (VIC). Apply by 9 Nov.
Associate Artistic Director, Griffin Theatre (NSW). Apply by 9 Nov.
Executive Director, Development and Partnerships, Creative Australia (NSW). Apply by 10 Nov.
General Manager, Artspace (NSW). Apply by 14 Nov.
General Manager (Parental Leave Cover), Community Arts Network (WA). Apply by 16 Nov.
Executive Director, Snuff Puppets (VIC). Apply by 17 Nov.
Executive Director and Co-CEO, Polyglot Theatre (VIC). Apply by 19 Nov.
Associate Producer, Festival of Dangerous Ideas, The Ethics Centre (NSW). Apply by 20 Nov.
Ticketing Supervisor, Sydney Writers Festival (NSW). Apply by 21 Nov.
New Artistic Leadership, Force Majeure (NSW). EOIs by 21 Nov.
Program Manager (Identified), Blak & Bright (VIC). Apply by 30 Nov.