Development investment supports the creative development and testing of ambitious works of scale that will tell distinctly Australian stories.

Projects in this stream must have a clear pathway towards a future public presentation for Australian audiences. They may also seek to reach international audiences. Applicants should show how they will develop the partnerships, resources and investment needed to support that future outcome.

The aim of Development investment is to help works reach proof-of-concept stage and enable them to secure further investment, co-producing partners and presenting partners.

Funding for this stream:  Investments between $150,000 - $250,000

Please note that the Creative Futures Fund is not designed to support early-stage creative development of a new and untested idea. Projects in early-stage development may be more suitable for other funding opportunities.

Australian organisations working in the arts and culture sector who are carrying out business in Australia and have their central management and control in Australia may apply.

This includes:

• theatres, museums, libraries, art galleries, music and literature organisations
• incorporated community organisations with significant experience delivering creative projects
• local governments with institutions, divisions or teams dedicated to arts and culture delivery
• universities or higher education providers with institutions, divisions or teams dedicated to arts and culture delivery
• commercial entities that create, produce or present artistic works. Applicants must make a strong case as to why public investment is needed for the project or how the project will benefit not-for-profit partners or the wider arts sector
• other producing or presenting arts organisations.

Organisations who have received previous Creative Futures Fund investment may apply once their initial project is completed and acquitted. Applications may be accepted from applicants who have not yet completed their current Creative Futures Fund project, provided the project will be completed before 1 July 2027. Applicants in this situation must speak to the Director or Manager of the fund before applying.

More detailed eligibility requirements can be found on their website.

• Phone: 02 9215 9000
• Email: creativefuturesfund@creative.gov.au