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Expressions of Interest: Creative Arts Central 2025-2026

Published On

01/10/2025

Creative Arts Central is an arts-in-community commissioning program supporting the creation of new and contemporary works by local creatives. We invite emerging and established artists and groups across visual, performance and literary arts to submit an Expression of Interest (EOI) to develop and deliver community-centric projects that encourage co-based participation and collaboration.

Who can apply?

Creative Arts Central is open to:
•    Individual artists and art groups/organisations living locally
•    Creative Practitioners working across the visual, performance, literary arts or craft
•    Emerging and established creative practitioners with a passion for community engagement

We strongly encourage applications from:
•    First Nations 
•    Culturally diverse
•    with a disability

The program is designed to be inclusive and accessible, with Easy English resources and the opportunity to request reasonable adjustments throughout the application process.

Full eligibility criteria here

  • Program Phases

    sarah-staunton-square.jpg

    Phase 1: Info session

    9 October 2025 between 6–7.30pm
    Join our free online session to learn more about the program, eligibility and how to apply.

    Register now

    Artwork shown by Sarah Staunton

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    Phase 2: Registration form opens

    13-27 October 2025

    Submit your Registration Form outlining your concept, community engagement approach and artistic vision.

    Projects will be assessed on merit by two council representatives, with the number of projects supported and funds distributed will be determined accordingly.
     

    Opens October 13, 2025

    Artwork shown by Jason Coulthard

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    Phase 3: Invitation to Pitch

    9-13 March 2026

    Those who are shortlisted will be invited to Pitch. This is an invitation only phase.

    Prior to this phase, all those who have completed their registration form will be invited to an online ‘How to Pitch’ workshop facilitated by Creative Plus Business on Thursday 20 November, 6pm-7.30pm. Booking process to be administered after the Registration phase.
     

    Artwork shown by Heartdancers

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    Phase 4: Commissions awarded

    by 15 May 2026

    Up to 5 commissions to be awarded under a merit based scoring matrix. The selection of those awarded will be determined by an external industry panel.

    Artwork shown by Christopher Diaz (CAC 2023/22)

  • What we’re looking for

    We’re seeking proposals that:
    •    Are conceptually strong and community-led
    •    Encourage collaboration and co-creation
    •    Reflect the diversity and creativity of our local region

    Eligibility criteria

  • Need support?

    We’re here to help. If you require assistance with your application or have questions about accessibility, please contact us to discuss how we can support you.

    Contact culturaldevelopment@centralcoast.nsw.gov.au or call 0436 923 702

    Page last updated: 1/10/2025

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