Funding continues for local arts on the Fraser Coast
Art, culture and community storytelling will take centre stage on the Fraser Coast again in 2025/26, as Council continues its investment in the Regional Arts Development Fund (RADF) in partnership with the Queensland Government.
Deputy Mayor and RADF Advisory Committee Chair Cr Sara Diana Faraj said the program would deliver $120,000 in funding to support local creative development and cultural experiences across the region.
“This program empowers local artists and creatives with the resources to develop their skills, share their stories, and connect with the wider community through arts and culture,” Cr Faraj said.
“From emerging artists attending workshops to large-scale creative projects that bring our community together, the RADF program makes a real difference to the cultural life of the Fraser Coast.”
The 2025/26 RADF program includes:
- $50,000 for the Community Funding Program, supporting creative development and community projects across three categories: Participate, Develop and Share.
- $70,000 for strategic Council-led initiatives, aligned with the Fraser Coast Arts and Culture Strategy.
Council also endorsed six community members to serve on the Fraser Coast RADF Advisory Committee from 1 July 2025 to 30 June 2027: Mr Greig Bolderrow, Mr Roger Jennings, Ms Lee-Ann Handley, Ms Mahney Wearne, Mr Matthew Richers, and Ms Susan Rogers.
“The Committee brings a diverse range of arts experience and community knowledge, and plays a vital role in assessing funding applications and shaping the program,” Cr Faraj said.
Minister for Education and the Arts John-Paul Langbroek said the Regional Arts Development Fund (RADF) has an impressive track record of supporting local arts and cultural programs across Queensland communities.
“The Crisafulli Government’s multi-year RADF investment provides greater funding certainty for 59 regional councils, streamlined program management and red tape reduction, while boosting the state’s vibrant arts and cultural scene,” Minister Langbroek said.
“Each year, RADF programs reach more than one million people across Queensland, securing local arts experiences and cultural tourism opportunities in regional areas, as well as supporting local artists in the lead up to Brisbane 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games.
“For 34 years, Arts Queensland has partnered with regional councils to co-invest in local arts initiatives that generate jobs, community engagement and help boost local economies. The Crisafulli Government will continue to support these vital collaborations.”
Applications for the RADF Community Funding Program open on 7 July 2025 and close on 11 May 2026, with four rounds of assessment throughout the year.
“Whether you’re a musician, visual artist, performer or storyteller, we encourage you to explore how RADF can help bring your creative ideas to life,” Cr Faraj said.
For program guidelines, assessment criteria and application support, visit: www.ourfrasercoast.com.au/radf