Recognising the achievement of an Australian First Nations artist or arts workers between the age of 18 and 35.

Creative Australia are pleased to invite nominations for the 2026 Youth Award for Achievement in the Arts. Valued at $25,000 this Award recognises the achievement of one Australian First Nations artist or arts worker in community arts and cultural development, dance, experimental arts, literature, multi-arts, music, theatre and/or visual arts between the age of 18 and 35.

Creative Australia are seeking nominations from individuals, arts and community organisations. The recipient will be presented with the Award at the First Nations Arts and Culture Awards ceremony to be held on Wednesday 27 May 2026.

This initiative is part of Creative Australia's First Nations First industry development programs. The programs have been developed in response to extensive community consultation on priorities and needs of the sector in response to Pillar 1, First Nations First - Revive, the Australian Government's shared vision for Australia: a place for every story and a story for every place. These initiatives aim to elevate existing programs and deliver new funding that build on a 50-year legacy of First Nations leadership and investment at Creative Australia.

Who can be nominated; you are eligible for this award if:

• you are between the ages of 18 -35 years old
• you are an artist or arts worker in community arts and cultural development, dance, experimental arts, literature, multi-arts, music, theatre and/or visual arts
• you identify as Australian First Nations
• you are based in Australia.

Please note Creative Australia do not accept self-nominations in this award category

• Phone: +61 2 9215 9163
• Email: alana.goodwin@creative.gov.au