The Northern Rivers’ arts community is celebrating new support, with the Tweed Regional Gallery and three local artists awarded funding in the latest NSW Arts and Cultural Funding Program.
The Minns Labor Government has reformed the program to make it simpler and more sustainable. For the first time, multi-year funding is available, giving organisations security to plan ahead, employ staff, and build long-term partnerships.
The Tweed Regional Gallery and Margaret Olley Art Centre will receive $80,000 over two years through the Arts and Culture Funding Program. The funding will strengthen its ability to deliver quality exhibitions, nurture artists, and expand community engagement.
In Lismore, three individual artists have been supported through the Creative Steps – New Work initiative. While their names are withheld for privacy, their projects include a $4,843 regional residency and two professional development grants of $3,845 and $10,000. The support will help local artists develop their practice, explore new ideas, and bring fresh works to audiences across the region.
Member for Lismore Janelle Saffin welcomed the announcement, praising the program’s focus on fairer and more certain outcomes. “It’s always great to see dedicated arts funding supporting our local artists and organisations and I look forward to seeing these projects develop and enrich our cultural life,” she said.
Applications were assessed by ten Artform Boards against published criteria and ranked by merit and impact. The outcomes highlight the region’s reputation as a hub of creative excellence.
From major cultural institutions like the Tweed Regional Gallery to emerging practitioners, the funding ensures the Northern Rivers’ arts sector continues to thrive and inspire.
For a full list of successful applications, visit create.nsw.gov.au
