The prestigious Red Ochre Award was established by the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Arts Board in 1993 to pay tribute to senior Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander persons for their outstanding lifetime achievement in the arts and their contribution to the recognition of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander arts, both nationally and internationally.

Creative Australia is pleased to invite nominations for senior First Nations artists and cultural workers with thirty or more years of continued artistic practice for the 2027 Red Ochre Awards.

Red Ochre Awards nominations are open across two categories:

• Red Ochre Award for Lifetime Achievement in Artistic Excellence: Two awards valued at $60,000 for outstanding lifetime achievement in artistic practice for a senior Australian First Nations artist.
• Red Ochre Award for Lifetime Achievement in Cultural Advocacy and Leadership: Two awards valued at $60,000 for outstanding lifetime achievement in cultural advocacy and leadership for a senior Australian First Nations arts leader or arts and cultural worker.

They 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 Thursday 27 May 2027.

• Phone: 0490 299 493
• Email: m.hutchings@australiacouncil.gov.au