The Tiwi Cultural Festival — a community-led celebration of Tiwi culture, heritage and creativity — has received a funding boost from the federal government.

Set to take place in Wurrumiyanga on Bathurst Island on July 19, the Labor government today announced it will invest $150,000 in the event. The festival coincides with one of the biggest weekends on the Tiwi calendar — the Tiwi Islands Football League Grand Final.

Tiwi Land Council Chair, Leslie Tungatalum, said the funding would allow organisers to "properly plan and grow the Tiwi Cultural Festival" alongside the grand final.

"This combined weekend has the potential to become a nationally significant event — one that strengthens cultural pride, ensures our traditions are passed down and creates real economic opportunities for Tiwi-owned businesses," he said.

Minister for Indigenous Australians, Malarndirri McCarthy, said supporting the festival is "really important as it brings our community together and creates an opportunity for us to share our culture with the rest of the country".

"I encourage everyone to get along to the festival and share a weekend of amazing activities including traditional dancing, music, art and of course footy," she added.

The festival will offer a vibrant program of cultural events, including traditional dance, music, storytelling, workshops, and demonstrations led by Tiwi Elders, artists and community members.

According to the federal government, events like the Tiwi Cultural Festival promote understanding and respect for First Nations culture. They also contribute directly to Target 16 of the National Agreement on Closing the Gap — which focuses on ensuring First Nations cultures and languages are strong, supported and flourishing.

Special Envoy for Remote Communities, Marion Scrymgour, echoed this message, noting the significance of the weekend in the local calendar.

"Investment in this festival is really important as it brings our community together and creates an opportunity for us to share our culture with the rest of the country," she said.

"I encourage everyone to get along to the festival and share a weekend of amazing activities including traditional dancing, music, art and of course footy."