grant

Youth Award for Achievement in the Arts

Nominate an Australian First Nations artist or arts worker between 18-35 years old for recognition and a $25,000 award.

Does this fit your work? 5 questions score every call to your medium, location and budget. Free.

Deadline: 1 day left
Entry fee: Free
Award: $25,000
Location: Australia
Exhibition window: May 27, 2027 → May 27, 2027
Applicants notified: Jan 31, 2027

Heads up: this show’s exhibition window can overlap other calls you enter - the same piece can’t hang in two places at once.Check conflicts →

About

Overview

The Youth Award for Achievement in the Arts recognises the achievement of an Australian First Nations artist or arts worker aged 18-35 working in community arts and cultural development, dance, experimental arts, literature, multi-arts, music, theatre and/or visual arts.

Award

One award of $25,000
Presented at the First Nations Arts and Culture Awards ceremony on Thursday 27 May 2027

Key Dates

Nominations open: Thursday 28 May 2026
Applications close: Tuesday 15 September 2026, 3pm AEST
Notifications: late January 2027
Award ceremony: Thursday 27 May 2027

Nominator Eligibility

The nominator can be an individual over 18 years of age residing in Australia, or an organisation based in Australia. Please note: You must be registered in the application management system a minimum of two business days prior to the closing date.

Nominee Eligibility

Between 18-35 years old
Artist or arts worker in community arts and cultural development, dance, experimental arts, literature, multi-arts, music, theatre and/or visual arts
Identify as Australian First Nations
Based in Australia
No overdue grant reports
Do not owe money to Creative Australia
Have not previously received the Youth Award for Achievement in the Arts
Have not been shortlisted for a First Nations Arts and Culture Award within the past three years

Important Notes

We do not accept self-nominations in this award category. Nominees can only be nominated in one category for the 2027 First Nations Arts and Culture Awards.

Contact & Accessibility

Contact: [email protected]. The National Relay Service is available for people who are Deaf or have a hearing or speech impairment. Auslan Interpreter Service is available upon request with at least one week's notice before the application closing date.

About the Awards

The First Nations Arts and Culture Awards are held annually on 27 May, the anniversary of the 1967 referendum and the opening of National Reconciliation Week, to honour First Nations excellence and outstanding contributions of First Nations artists, arts workers and entrepreneurs. Assessments are conducted by an independent panel of First Nations Industry Advisors.

Award: One award of $25,000
Entry fee: Free to enter
Theme: Recognition of achievement by Australian First Nations artists and arts workers in community arts and cultural development, dance, experimental arts, literature, multi-arts, music, theatre, and visual arts.
Eligibility: Open to Australian First Nations artists or arts workers aged 18-35, based in Australia, with no overdue grant reports or money owed to Creative Australia, and not previously shortlisted for a First Nations Arts and Culture Award within the past three years.
Audience: Nominations for Australian First Nations artists or arts workers between 18-35 years old.
Contact: [email protected]

Every listing links to the organizer's official page. Always confirm deadlines, fees, and entry rules there before you apply.