By Georgia Parsonson
Queensland Government has introduced the First Nations Pathways Fund 2022-2025, intended to support First Nations performing arts organisations developing and producing new work.
“As home to the world’s oldest continuous living cultures, we have a unique opportunity to support the growth of both Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander organisations and culture,” Minister for the Arts, Leeanne Enoch said.
“This new investment will also ensure audiences can experience the quality and diversity of First Nations arts and cultures, engage in truth-telling, and share Queensland’s rich history, languages, and stories.
“Support through this fund will enable organisations to focus on their future and help deliver on Queensland’s plan for economic recovery from COVID-19, developing new work, creating jobs and new career pathways for First Nations artists and arts workers.
“The First Nations Pathways Fund was an important outcome of the Queensland Government’s Creative Together 2020 – 2030 Roadmap and its newly-established First Nations Arts and Cultures Panel.
“First Nations organisations hold Country and culture at the core of their businesses and share stories through various art forms. That’s why the First Nations Arts and Cultures Panel has been engaged in developing this program,” Ms Enoch said.
The fund will offer between $60000 and $100000 per year to eligible First Nations organisations to support operational costs and include an additional $30000 to aid these organisations in growing their business.
An initial business needs analysis will be undertaken with a First Nations business consultant to determine the development requirements needed to ensure their organisation flourishes.
“It is anticipated that this dedicated funding to support specific business needs means successful recipients will develop a diverse and sustainable revenue model that delivers strong employment, programming and service delivery outcomes,” Ms Enoch said.
“This is so important for ensuring a successful and exciting future for First Nations culture and storytelling.”
The fund opens today (July 28th) and closes in September. Applications will be assessed and announced in November 2021. The First Nations Pathways funding is expected to support organisations from January 2022 to December 2025.
For more information, visit https://www.arts.qld.gov.au/aq-funding.