Merri‑bek Arts Projects Grant 2027

The Merri‑bek Arts Projects Grant is an annual funding program run by Merri‑bek City Council to support the development and presentation of innovative creative projects across all art forms. The grant offers up to $6,000 for individual artists and up to $12,000 for arts groups and organisations, with the aim of strengthening sustainable artistic practice, increasing cultural participation and reinforcing Merri‑bek’s position as a leading arts centre. Eligible projects must be delivered between January and December 2027 and must be based in Merri‑bek, with a primary business in the arts sector. The program prioritises First Peoples artists, groups and organisations, and requires individual applicants to live in Merri‑bek while groups must be not‑for‑profit and at least 51% Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander owned. Funding can be used for a range of project expenses including studio hire, art materials, marketing, audience development, accessibility and other eligible costs, but cannot cover the entire cost of a project. Applications are free to submit and close on 2 September 2026. The grant is open to all Merri‑bek‑based artists and arts organisations, with no application fee and a clear focus on community benefit and cultural participation.

Funding for project expenses such as studio hire, art materials, marketing, audience development, accessibility and other eligible costs

Merri‑bek-based artists, arts groups and organisations; must be based in Merri‑bek and have primary business in the arts sector; First Peoples artists, groups and organisations are prioritised; individual artists must live in Merri‑bek; groups must be not‑for‑profit and at least 51% Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander owned