TONY BURKE MP
MINISTER FOR HOME AFFAIRS
MINISTER FOR IMMIGRATION AND CITIZENSHIP
MINISTER FOR CYBER SECURITY
MINISTER FOR THE ARTS
LEADER OF THE HOUSE
SENATOR MALARNDIRRI MCCARTHY
MINISTER FOR INDIGENOUS AUSTRALIANS
SENATOR JANA STEWART SENATOR FOR VICTORIA
Backing First Nations art
More than 80 activities delivered by First Nations art centres, fairs, regional hubs and industry service organisations across Australia will receive funding from the Albanese Labor Government.
The Indigenous Visual Arts Industry Support program supports a professional, viable and ethical First Nations arts industry to enable artists and arts workers to earn income, develop professional skills and connect to the art market.
Recipients included local organisation Gallery Kaiela Inc to grow their art centre as a sustainable social enterprise, expanding opportunities for First Nations artists and creative workers across the Goulburn Murray region.
Minister for the Arts, Tony Burke, said the funding demonstrated the government’s commitment to fostering First Nations arts and artists.
“Visual art is a vital form of storytelling and expression of First Nations knowledge, culture and history.
“We are committed to investing in the future of First Nations art so it can continue to be shared and celebrated for generations to come.”
Minister for Indigenous Australians, Senator Malarndirri McCarthy, said First Nations art celebrates and builds connections in Australia and internationally with the world’s oldest living culture.
“Art has been central to our cultures and connection to Country for over 65,000 years.
“First Nations art centres are important hubs in our communities, supporting not only cultural connections but economic empowerment for artists, art workers and their families.”
Senator for Victoria, Jana Stewart, said this investment would ensure the continued growth of the vibrant First Nations creative community in Shepparton.
“Gallery Kaiela Inc plays such an important role in our community. I’m proud that the Albanese Labor Government has been able to support the important work they do.”
More information about the programs, including other funding recipients, is available on the Office for the Arts website:
https://www.arts.gov.au/funding-and-support/indigenous-visual-arts-industry-support-program
FRIDAY 24 APRIL 2026
MEDIA CONTACTS:
BURKE | JAMILA CLARK | 0448 941 211
MCCARTHY | BRIHONY SPEED | 0456 903 299
STEWART | BENNETT DAVY | 0403 734 444
