Expressions of Interest: Creative Arts Central 2025-2026
Creative Art Central is an arts-in-community commissioning program supporting the creation of new and contemporary works by local creatives.
Published On
01/10/2025We 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. Be bold and submit your ideas for the 2025-26 program and your chance to acquire up to $40,000 in commissioned funds.
Open until 27 October 2025
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 people who are:
- First Nations
- from culturally diverse backgrounds
- living with 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 General fact sheet
-
Program Phases
Phase 1: Info session - Closed
-
Phase 2: EOI Open
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.
Artwork shown by Jason Coulthard
-
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
-
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 -
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