Final call to apply for Geelong Arts Centre’s Associate Artists’ Program – over $80,000 in funding and support is up for grabs

This opportunity supports the career development of two creatives.

Geelong Arts Centre is seeking two visionary Associate Artists to receive over $40,000 in cash support to develop bold new work, focus on artistic practice, and bring fresh ideas to life. The package also includes up to $15,000 in rehearsal studio access and dedicated mentorship.

Now in its third year, this program is open to Victorian-based professional live performance artists looking for the time, space, and resources to experiment, innovate, and make their next project shine.

Associate Artists’ Program

Applications Now Open

Applications Close: 5pm, Monday 27 April 2026
Program Start: 1 July 2026

Apply at geelongartscentre.org.au/creative-engine

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Two Associate Artists will each receive a comprehensive package designed to support every stage of their creative process. This includes a $25,000 artist fee plus 12% superannuation, providing financial stability to dedicate themselves fully to their work. They will also receive a $10,000 project budget to engage collaborators, mentors, or cover other project expenses, alongside $4,500 to support travel and accommodation, ensuring they can pursue their artistic ambitions without constraint.

Beyond financial support, both artists will gain up to $15,000 worth of studio access, offering the time and space to research, rehearse, and refine their work. They will also benefit from ongoing mentorship and support from the Geelong Arts Centre team, helping them navigate the creative journey and expand their professional networks.

CEO and Creative Director Geelong Arts Centre, Rhys Holden says, “This program has shown what’s possible when artists are given the time and support to really focus on their work. We’re excited to welcome two new Associate Artists in 2026 and to see their ideas take shape in Geelong.”

This program provides artists with the opportunity to fully immerse themselves in their practice while contributing to Geelong Arts Centre’s Creative Engine program. Associate Artists will also have the chance to deliver workshops and mentor emerging artists, sharing their expertise and shaping the next generation of Victorian artists. Their work will be presented to Geelong audiences and beyond, fostering a vibrant exchange of ideas and creativity.

The program is designed for established, professional artists with a track record in live performance, whether in theatre, dance, music, digital mediums, or community-based practices. First Nations artists and artists from diverse backgrounds are strongly encouraged to apply, and additional supports are available to ensure all participants can thrive.

Performer and theatre-maker Bron Batten described the program as “One-of-a-kind and invaluable for the time and space it gives artists to develop ideas and build relationships.”

Playwright Keziah Warner says, “It’s a rare and incredibly freeing opportunity. I’ve been able to research and write with real support, engage with local artists, and let my project develop naturally.”

This initiative reflects Geelong Arts Centre’s unwavering commitment to nurturing artists at every stage of their career while enriching the creative fabric of Geelong and Victoria. Since its launch in 2019, Creative Engine has supported 1,087 Victorian artists, developed 130 projects, and delivered 90 grants, 46 professional development initiatives, and 11 co-commissions. The program has invested over $1.2 million in funding, development, and venue, staff, and equipment support, demonstrating a sustained commitment to artist development.

The Associate Artist program, part of Creative Engine, is proudly supported by The Ian Potter Foundation and backed by the Victorian Government through Creative Victoria, Major Artistic Partner Deakin University, and Innovation Partner Costa Asset Management.

Applications close 5pm, Monday 27 April 2026 – submit your proposal at geelongartscentre.org.au.