Indigenous Visual Arts Industry Support program

The Indigenous Visual Arts Industry Support program helps fund the operations of around 80 Indigenous-owned art centres, and a number of art fairs, regional hubs and industry service organisations that are at the heart of Australia’s world-famous Indigenous visual art movement.

How it works

Who can apply

Organisations that support professional Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander artists to produce, promote and market their art.

When to apply

Organisations with a new proposal can contact us anytime to discuss their proposal. Funding is offered directly to organisations.

Funding allocation

Funding of approximately $20 million per annum is allocated directly to organisations that can demonstrate high-level performance against the program objectives.

Program Information

funding tabs

About The Program

The Indigenous Visual Arts Industry Support (IVAIS) program supports a professional, viable and ethical Indigenous visual arts industry with strong participation by Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people. Funding provides professional opportunities for over 8,000 artists and around 300 arts workers, most living in very remote Indigenous communities.

Some of Australia’s most dynamic visual art is produced in Indigenous art centres, which enable artists to create new art, earn income, develop professional skills and connect to the art market.

The IVAIS program also supports the Indigenous Art Code, an industry-led voluntary code of conduct that promotes fair and ethical trade between art dealers and Indigenous visual artists.

Program guidelines

The Indigenous Art Centre Plan

The IVAIS program is underpinned by the Indigenous Art Centre Plan that provides a co-operative framework for stakeholders to work together to strengthen the industry.