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.

How to seek funding

Funding is available through restricted non-competitive and open competitive grant opportunities.

Funding allocation

Funding of approximately $20 million per annum is allocated directly to organisations through a restricted non-competitive process. Approximately $300,000 per annum is available through an annual open competitive grant round.

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 more than 7,000 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.

Funding is offered through restricted non-competitive and an open competitive grant opportunities. Visit the Australian Government's GrantConnect website for more information.

Indigenous Visual Arts Industry Support Grant Guidelines

The Indigenous Visual Arts Industry Support Grant Guidelines include eligibility criteria and information about the application and grant processes. The Guidelines can be accessed on the Australian Government's GrantConnect website.

The Indigenous Art Centre Plan

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