The National Regional Arts Fellowship Program is a strategic project supported by the Regional Arts Fund and delivered by Regional Arts Australia. Fellowships provide guaranteed income for regional artists and arts workers to develop work, skills, networks, or research. In 2026, we are seeking Fellowship proposals with a focus on economic, cultural and/or environmental sustainability. 

KEY DATES
Fellowship delivery period: 1 September 2026 – 31 August 2027

ABOUT THIS OPPORTUNITY

Eight fellowships will be awarded in 2026 with a total funding pool of $140,000. At least fifty percent of the fellowships provided will be targeted to cohorts that Regional Arts Australia has identified as being under-funded or under-represented through the Regional Arts Fund competitive grants program.  

Creative & Professional Development: $20,000

The Creative & Professional Development Fellowship provides $20,000 to regional artists and arts workers to support creative practice or professional development, with a focus on sustainability. In 2026, a total of six Creative & Professional Development Fellowships will be awarded. At least one will be designated for Aboriginal & Torres Strait Islander applicants, and at least one will be designated for applicants with lived experience of d/Deafness and/or disability. 

Early Career Development: $10,000

The Early Career Development Fellowship provides $10,000 to regional artists and arts workers who are in the early stages of their practice or career and have had less access to funding opportunities. It supports the development of creative practice or professional development opportunities, with a focus on sustainability. In 2026, two Early Career Development Fellowships will be provided. At least one will be designated for applicants who are under 25 years of age.