Queensland Government's pledge to boost First Nations arts ventures

Joseph Guenzler Published October 27, 2023 at 7.00am (AWST)

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Grants up to $10,000 are available to eligible First Nations arts and cultural businesses under the Queensland Government initiative. (Image: Queensland Government)

The Queensland Government has restated its dedication to promoting First Nations arts.

It comes after the First Nations Arts Business Hub initiated the process for First Nations Arts Business Grants applications, which has been created in collaboration with the First Nations Arts and Cultures Panel.

This hub provides access to various business tools, such as data and grant programs, for First Nations arts and cultural professionals and businesses and runs in tandem with the Queensland Indigenous Business Network, which was recently announced.

Queensland-based Aboriginal and Torres Strait arts and cultural businesses can apply for First Nations Arts Business Grants, offering up to $10,000.

"October is Indigenous Business Month, and the Palaszczuk Government is proud to be backing First Nations arts and cultural businesses across Queensland with today's announcement," Minister for the Arts and Minister for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Partnerships, Leeanne Enoch MP said.

"First Nations arts enterprises throughout Queensland make a unique contribution to our State's cultural life and our economy.

"The First Nations Arts Business Hub and Grants will help strengthen and grow these contributions, ensuring that Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander artists and creative businesses can best meet their growing markets."

The grants aim to assist in acquiring services that enhance sustainability, skills, and will prioritise areas like corporate and cultural governance, business and strategic planning.

They will also facilitate professional development opportunities for both board and staff members.

"The First Nations Arts and Cultures Panel and Arts Queensland have co-designed the First Nations Arts Business Hub and grants program to support the many talented Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander artists and creative businesses in Queensland sustain and grow their practice, products and revenue," First Nations Arts and Cultures Panel chair, Georgina Richters said.

"We want to ensure that First Nations arts and cultural practitioners and organisations are well placed to take up the opportunities offered through the Brisbane 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games."