Creative Australia Awards Fellowships to 16 Artists

On September 21, 2026, Creative Australia unveiled its 2026 Fellowships, awarding AUD 80,000 each to 16 talented artists. These fellowships support innovative projects and professional development across various artistic disciplines, including music, literature, theatre, visual arts, dance, and community arts. The initiative aims to empower artists to deepen their practice and contribute to the cultural landscape of Australia, fostering a vibrant arts community that reflects diverse perspectives and experiences.

The recipients of this year's fellowships represent a rich tapestry of artistic voices. Among them is acclaimed playwright Jane Harrison, who will use her fellowship to develop a new full-length play, building on her recent success with the production of Bennelong at the Sydney Theatre Company. Wiradjuri musician Zeppelin Hamilton's fellowship will support his creative residency, enhancing his international profile and advancing contemporary First Nations music. The fellowships also include support for five-time ARIA Award-winning vocalist Katie Noonan and visual artist Angela Valamanesh, among others, showcasing the breadth of talent within the Australian arts scene.

Creative Australia Executive Director of Arts Investment, Alice Nash, emphasized the significance of these fellowships in nurturing distinctive artistic voices. She stated that the fellowships provide artists with the necessary time and resources to take creative risks, develop ambitious new work, and build vital connections within the arts community. This initiative benefits individual artists and enriches the cultural fabric of Australia as a whole.

Moreover, the fellowships support a range of artistic practices, including First Nations arts and arts related to disability. This inclusive approach acknowledges the importance of diverse narratives and experiences in shaping Australia's artistic landscape. For instance, arts practitioner and disability advocate Heidi Everett's fellowship will explore mental health and lived experience through the arts, highlighting the intersection of creativity and social issues.

As the 2026 fellows embark on their artistic journeys, the future looks promising for the Australian arts community. The support provided through these fellowships is expected to yield groundbreaking works that will resonate with audiences both locally and internationally. Creative Australia continues to foster a culture of creativity and innovation, ensuring that the arts remain a vital aspect of Australia's identity and a source of inspiration for generations to come.