The Northern Territory Government is investing in the 2025-2028 Visual Art, Craft and Design Framework (VACDF), a joint funding initiative between the Australian Government and States and Territories to support for the Australian contemporary visual art, craft and design sector.

Expressions of interest are sought from NT arts organisations interested in working in or expanding into the area of visual arts and crafts with a focus on design over the next 4 years.

It is intended that these grants will benefit arts organisations across the NT, with grants awarded to at least 2 arts organisations operating in the Top End and at least 2 grants awarded to arts organisations operating in the Barkly and Central Australia regions.

For definition purposes, ‘design’ covers art forms that are primarily of visual nature that are technically devised but may be produced by hand or machine and may include industrial design objects, graphic design, interactive digital design and fashion design.

Expressions of interests are encouraged to be innovative and exploratory.

Who Can Apply

Only NT based arts organisations can apply.

Organisations must be not-for-profit, legally constituted organisations that have their main place of business registered in the NT. Only organisations whose core business is the delivery of arts programs and services for the benefit of Territorians are eligible to apply.

Organisations must be compliant with governing legislation: the Associations Act 2003 (NT) (or some cases the Incorporated Associations Act of another state/territory), Corporations (Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander) Act 2006 or Corporations Act 2001. Non-compliant or insolvent organisations are ineligible and cannot act as an Administering Body.

NT Government agencies and associated entities, local government, educational institutions, hospitals and national charities are ineligible.

Fore more information on eligibility, visit the NT Arts Grants Guidelines.

What can be funded

Initiatives that align to the VACDF objectives including (but not limited to):

• Development of new works that are primarily of visual nature that are technically devised but may be produced by hand or machine and may include industrial design objects, graphic design, interactive digital design and textile design for fashion.
• Presentation of design works within contemporary galleries and their online equivalents.
• Partnership development between designers and Aboriginal artists to co-create new design concepts that integrate Aboriginal cultural perspectives.
• Activating residencies or workshops that facilitate cross-cultural collaboration and skill-sharing between designers based within the Territory and outside of the Territory.
• Investing in digital platforms and international design showcases that promote Australian-designed products and initiatives to national and global audiences.

How to apply

Expressions of Interest must be submitted via GrantsNT and provide the following information:

• Tell us who you are and provide background on your organisation and its achievements.
• Tell us why your organisation is interested in this funding opportunity and how it aligns with your goals and mission.
• Briefly describe the proposed initiative and timeline of how your activity will deliver against the VACDF objectives and achieve the desired outcomes.
• Briefly describe how your initiative will benefit and contribute to the growth and development of the Northern Territory visual art, craft and design sector.
• Provide a high-level budget for 4 years.

Once the Expressions of Interest have been assessed, applicants will be notified and will be required to submit a formal application through the Strategic initiatives and Partnerships grant program.

Before you apply

Before you submit your application, you should

• ensure you have no outstanding acquittals or reports with the NT Government and are compliant with your regulatory authority (if applicable)
• read the guidelines in full
• speak to an Arts Development Officer to check if you are eligible to apply
• define your activity (what is it, how do you want to do it, who is involved), and develop a project plan if required
• prepare a realistic and balanced budget that demonstrates value for money and get the necessary quotes. Refer to the Budget and budget support material section the guidelines
• ensure you collect and submit support material

Key dates

Round 1: EOI - Visual Arts, Crafts and Design Sector (VACDF)

Notifications of Outcome - From 24 Feb 2025

Project / Service Commencement - From 1 March 2025

Project / Service Completion - 31 December 2028

Supporting Documents

• 2024-25 NT Arts Grant Program Guidelines 
• 2024-25 AGP Budget template 
• EOI Guidelines for Visual ArtCraft and Design Framework NT Investment 2025-2028 

Contact Details

Name: Arts NT

Role: Department

Phone: 0889998981

Email: arts.office@nt.gov.au