Western Sydney First Nations Program

About this grant

This program provides funding to First Nations artists, creatives and organisations in Western Sydney.

Eligibility requirements

All of the following criteria must be met:

• First nations artists, creatives and organisations in western sydney.
• Eligible funding uses include:
• Cultural governance and icip compliance
• Venue hire and creative space activation
• Marketing and community engagement.
• Eligible applicants include:
• Emerging first nations artists and arts workers – individuals developing their creative practice or career
• Micro first nations led organisations – very small, volunteer run organisations with turnover under $250,000 and limited governance capacity
• Small first nations led organisations – organisations with 1 to 5 paid staff, turnover between $250,000-$1 million, and some governance systems
• Medium first nations led organisations – organisations with 5 to 20 staff, turnover between $1-$5 million, delivering regional or state level programs
• First nations collectives seeking formalisation – informal groups of first nations artists or cultural practitioners working together but not yet incorporated.

What the funding covers

• Funding between $10K and $100K.

How to apply

1. 1Confirm readiness: Ensure you meet criteria (e.g., ABN, turnover limits, GST registration), align project objectives with grant goals, and estimate time for evidence gathering and writing.
2. 2Gather evidence: Collect documents like financials, business plans, market research, project budgets, resumes, risk analysis, and support letters to prove capability and impact.
3. 3Register/log in: Obtain an Australian Business Number (ABN) if needed, sign into the relevant portal (e.g., Business Grants Hub portal), and note any prerequisites like advisory service reports.
4. 4Prepare and write application: Address all selection criteria clearly (project details, government alignment, costs, outcomes, benefits); keep concise, factual, and compelling; validate for completeness.
5. 5Review, approve, and submit: Proofread, get stakeholder sign-off, submit online via the portal before deadline (no late entries); expect eligibility check, merit assessment, and outcome notification.
6. 6Visit https://business.gov.au/grants-and-programs/western-sydney-first-nations-program for application details

Application tips