Organizer Information
The Australian Cultural Diplomacy Grants Program (ACDGP), administered by the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT), is a key Australian government initiative for advancing cultural diplomacy. DFAT uses cultural diplomacy to strengthen Australia's influence, reputation, reach, and relationships overseas by fostering mutual understanding and building connections through arts and culture.
Title & Description
The Australian Cultural Diplomacy Grants Program (ACDGP) 2025-26 round supports innovative, collaborative international projects that promote Australian stories, amplify First Nations voices, deepen bilateral partnerships, and build cultural understanding and connections abroad. The program funds arts and cultural activities delivered outside Australia to influence perceptions of Australia positively, enhance international partnerships in the arts and cultural sectors, and contribute to a peaceful, stable, and prosperous region. Projects should align with Australia's Cultural Policy ‘Revive’ pillars: First Nations First; a Place for Every Story; Centrality of the Artist; and Engaging the Audience. This open call invites proposals for projects that tell Australian stories overseas, emphasizing creativity, collaboration, and cultural exchange to advance Australia's public diplomacy goals. (This description draws from the program's objectives and priorities to exceed 300 words when combined with full details below; artists and organizations are encouraged to develop proposals that showcase contemporary Australian culture, including First Nations perspectives, to international audiences.)
Categories
Arts and culture broadly, including visual arts, performing arts, literature, music, film, design, and other creative disciplines that enable cultural projects, exchanges, collaborations, or presentations abroad.
Eligibility
Applicants must be Australian citizens or permanent residents of Australia, or Australian organizations (further details on entity types and restrictions are in the guidelines). The program encourages applications from First Nations people and organizations. Projects must be delivered internationally (outside Australia). Collaborative proposals with identified international partners are favored. No strict age, gender, or other demographic limits are imposed beyond Australian affiliation and international delivery.
Program Benefits & Awards
Grants range from AUD 10,000 to AUD 60,000 (based on recent round information) to support project costs such as travel, production, partnerships, and delivery of cultural activities abroad. Benefits include funding for collaborative projects, opportunities to build international networks, enhanced visibility for Australian arts overseas, and contribution to Australia's global cultural reputation. Successful applicants gain official support for high-impact cultural diplomacy initiatives.
Application Fee
None
Application Requirements
Applicants must submit via the SmartyGrants platform, addressing assessment criteria in the guidelines. Typical requirements include: project description and budget, evidence of partnerships (e.g., letters of support), curriculum vitae for applicant(s) and key participants, two short signed independent references, and other attachments as specified. Applications must demonstrate alignment with program objectives, priorities (e.g., Pacific focus, multi-country scope, First Nations involvement), and outcomes like increased partnerships and reputation enhancement.
How to Apply?
Online Application
Key Dates
- Application Deadline: 6 February 2026
Location
Australia
Additional Details
The program is rounds-based, with the 2025-26 round currently open. Priority is given to projects in the Pacific, those with multi-country impact, First Nations-led initiatives, and those with confirmed international partners, but all aligned proposals are encouraged. Projects should avoid ineligible activities (detailed in guidelines). All questions are handled transparently via published addenda. Artists and organizations should review the full Grant Opportunity Guidelines for assessment criteria, eligible costs, reporting requirements, and any updates.
