Space to Create: First Nations Music Residency
Funding Providers
Creative Australia
Location
Australia WideFunding Type
Cash grant G18960
Primary Category
Arts and cultureEligible to
- Individuals
Funding
Total pool: UndisclosedRound(s)
Currently Closed
- Opens 17-Sep-2025 Closes 11-Nov-2025
Purpose
The aim of the program is to create a dedicated space so each of the participants can take the time to sustain, grow creative ideas and collaborate including composition, voice coaching, strengthening technical skills and providing professional development opportunities for the future.
Overview
Space to Create: First Nations Music Residency is an immersive residency program for emerging and established First Nations musicians, producers, and songwriters to dedicate focused time to the development of their music practice. Participants will have access to professional recording studios, tailored mentoring, and workshops with leading industry professionals.
Delivered in partnership with the Australian National University's School of Music and the Yil Lull ("To Sing") Recording Studio, the residency is underpinned by music, culture, and community, and is designed to support sustainable pathways within the music industry.
The program provides a dedicated environment for eight selected participants to expand their creative ideas, collaborate with peers, and strengthen their artistic practice. Activities will include composition, voice coaching, technical skill development, and professional learning opportunities to support long-term career growth.
Program details
- Eight (8) First Nations creatives will be selected for this opportunity.
- The residency is delivered across two stages:
Stage 1: Group Residency
- Location: ANU School of Music, Canberra
- Dates: 16 - 20 February 2026
- Details: A one-week intensive with other First Nations artists, featuring workshops, recording sessions, mentoring, and masterclasses to help you build community, share knowledge, and strengthen your creative practice.
Stage 2: Individual Residency
- Location: ANU School of Music, Canberra
- Details: One week of focused studio and project time with tailored mentoring and technical support.
Please note: You must attend both stages to take part in the program.
What's provided
Space to Create will provide:
- Travel, accommodation, daily allowances, and local transport.
- A participation fee to support your time and commitment.
- Access to the Yil Lull First Nations Recording Studio, including:
- Studio control rooms and professional software.
- Mastering and video editing suites and resources.
- Technical and production support from Senior Technical Officer.
- Mentoring from respected First Nations music industry professionals.
- Industry masterclasses and creative labs across the School of Music to build skills and networks.
Limitations
Who can apply?
This program is open to:
- First Nations artists, musicians, composers, producers, audio engineers, and music industry workers.
- Applicants over 18 years of age.
- Australian citizens or permanent residents.
Please note:
- You can only submit one application per year for Space to Create: Music Residency round.
Who cannot apply?
You cannot apply for this grant if:
- You are not an Australian First Nations practising artists or arts professional.
- You are a group or organisation.
- You are based outside Australia.
- You have an overdue grant report.
- You owe money to Creative Australia.
- You are an artist manager or agent.
Applications / Guidelines
Contact Details
- Phone: 02 9215 9000
- Email: joseph.clarke@creative.gov.au
We take pride in ensuring our data is up to date and accurate, but you should not rely on our data alone. Please double-check important information on the funder's website before applying.