Creative Arts Grants

Applications for 2026 are open!

 

Step 1: Application

Online Application is due by 11.59 pm Wednesday 22nd April. Online Application form is at the end of this page.

 

What are we looking for?

We are looking to support any artistic project or opportunity for artistic development, including but not limited to: performing arts, creative writing, visual arts, music, film, and media. 

Whether you’re directing three musicals, curating an exhibition on dogs, or toying with the idea of wrapping wire around a stick and chucking it in a pool under the light of the moon- you can apply for funding of up to $500 through our grants program.

 

What do we need from you?

We need to see your project timeline and budget information! We want to see how you've budgeted your project, down to the dollar. To be approved, you need to show us how the grant will be supporting your project. For example, it might help you acquire materials, or help you hire a space to exhibit your project.

 

UMSU Creative Arts Grant Terms and Conditions

1. Applications must be submitted via this form. Printed or posted applications will not be accepted.
2. Applicants may arrange a consultation with the Creative Arts committee before submitting their application (recommended at least 3 days before the deadline).
3. Grants may support any artistic project or opportunity for artistic development, including but not limited to: performing arts, creative writing, visual arts, music, film, and media.
4. Applicants are expected to make their work accessible to all, including people with disabilities.
5. Projects must not promote violence, hatred, or discrimination of any kind.
6. Grants of up to $500 are awarded at the discretion of the Creative Arts Committee and may be less than the amount requested.
7. Applicants must be:
   • Current University of Melbourne students (for individuals), or
   • At least 75% UoM students (for group projects)
8. Only complete applications with all required information will be considered.
9. Applications must be submitted before the project begins. Project funding will not be supported retrospectively.
10. Projects must be completed within a specific timeframe, preferably within 6 months of receiving funding.
11. Grants will not be awarded for projects that form part of course assessment (e.g. Honours or Masters exhibitions).
12. Applicants must provide information on the promotion, income, and funding of their project.
13. All supporting documents must be submitted with the application. Late submissions may not be considered.
14. The Committee reserves the right to revoke funding if terms are breached. Refunds may be required.
15. Projects should not presume funding until a grant is confirmed.
16. Grant payments will be made within four weeks of the application deadline.

If you have questions, contact the Creative Arts Officers before applying.

 

Application Process

1. Review the terms and conditions above.
2. Email arts@union.unimelb.edu.au with your draft application if you have any questions or concerns
3. Complete the Creative Arts Grant Application Form (this form)
4. Attach the following to your application (preferably in one document):
   •         Project timeline
   •         Budget information 
   •         Evidence of previous work (photos, writing samples, etc.)
   •         Any other relevant documents
5.         Submit your application

 

Requirements of Successful Applicants

1. Acknowledge both the Creative Arts Department and UMSU on all publicity materials (logos and style guide will be provided).
2. Acknowledge Traditional Owners of the land in all public-facing material. (Help available from Creative Arts or Indigenous Department.)
3. Provide copies of all publicity, publications, recordings, and photos for UMSU archives (Rowden White Library).
4. Invite the Creative Arts Officers and Committee to any public events (e.g., opening nights, performances).
5. Inform the Officers of any major changes, including:
   • Project cancellation
   • Major program/content changes
   • Additional funding not originally declared

 

Applications will open at 9am on Friday 27th March 2026.

We acknowledge the Traditional Custodians of the land where we live, work, and learn as the Wurundjeri and Boon Wurrung people of the Kulin Nations, and pay our respects to their Elders past, present and emerging, and also pay our respects to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders. Sovereignty was never ceded. This always was and always will be, Aboriginal land. Colonisation is ongoing and its presence in art is very prevalent.