Grants of up to $500,000 to provide support for events held in Victoria, showcasing regional tourism strengths and building Victoria’s reputation as an events destination.
On this page you will find
What is the Regional Events Fund?
The Regional Event Fund 2025-26 is designed to support the development and expansion of regional events across South Australia. This funding initiative aims to bolster tourism and economic development by enhancing existing events and fostering the creation of innovative new ones. Two funding streams are available:
- Development Event: Supports new and emerging events that show potential for growth.
- Established Event: Aids events with a proven track record in achieving growth and innovation.
Regional Events Fund level of support
Level of Support: The Regional Event Fund offers financial support ranging from $5,000 to $50,000 per event annually, depending on the category—Established or Development.
Minimum and Maximum Amount of Funding:
- Development Events: $5,000 to $20,000
- Established Events: $20,000 to $50,000
Co-contributions are required from applicants, with a recommended ratio of matching funds from their own or community sources to maximise the impact and reach of the event.
See the guidelines for full details of the level of support.
Regional Events Fund important dates
- Applications Close: 18 March 2025
- Funding Period: Events staged from 1 September 2025 to 31 August 2026
- Register your interest with GrantHelper.
Regional Events Fund objectives
The fund aims to:
- Drive regional visitor numbers immediately and encourage repeat visitation long-term.
- Strengthen the regional events calendar.
- Foster sustainable event practices and build long-term event management capabilities.
- Enhance partnerships among stakeholders to deliver better event outcomes.
See the guidelines for full details of objectives and outcomes.
Events eligible for Regional Events Fund support
Eligible Events: Leisure tourism events that have a strategic importance to their region, contribute to the cultural and social fabric, and are financially sustainable with a clear management model.
Ineligible Events: Business events (conferences, seminars, expos), agricultural or trade shows, award ceremonies, fireworks displays, and any events mainly focused on fundraising or commemorations.
Expenditure eligible for Regional Events Fund support
Eligible Expenditures: Costs associated with enhancing the event’s presentation (e.g., styling, activations), marketing expenses to boost awareness and visitation, hiring of specialized personnel, and temporary infrastructure that improves access and safety.
Ineligible Expenditures: Prize money, sanctioning fees, legal costs, insurance, and investments in permanent infrastructure are not covered.
See the guidelines for full details of eligible and ineligible expenditure.
Other Regional Events Fund important details that you will need to know
Organisations eligible for Regional Events Fund support
Organisational Eligibility Requirements:
- Australian Business Number (ABN): Applicants must have an ABN and be a corporation registered with ASIC, an incorporated association, a South Australian Government body, or another type of body corporate.
- Insurance Requirements: A minimum of $20 million public liability insurance is required, along with any other relevant insurance cover.
- Financial Viability: All events should be financially viable prior to seeking funding. Applications must demonstrate evidence of confirmed cash or budget relief from the community, local council, or commercial partners.
- Sponsorship and Partnerships: Applicants should have or seek partnerships and sponsorships that align with the event’s aims and funding objectives.
- Inclusivity: Events should be inclusive, accessible, and sustainable.
- Risk Management: Applicants must have a risk management plan in place.
- Reporting and Accountability: Successful applicants will be required to meet regularly with their account manager, submit progress reports, and provide a post-event report evaluating the economic impact of the event using the SATC’s Event Evaluation Tool or an independent economic impact assessment.
See the guidelines for full details of eligible and ineligible organisations.
Regional Events Fund assessment criteria
Applications will be assessed based on:
- Tourism value and economic impact (e.g., expected visitor numbers and spending).
- Marketing and media value.
- Strategic alignment with regional tourism goals.
See the guidelines for full details of the assessment criteria.
How do I get the Regional Events Fund?
Applicants must:
- Read and understand the guidelines.
- Ensure eligibility for the funding. Applicants that do not meet all the eligibility criteria will not be considered.
- Deliver the project as outlined in the application.
- Provide complete information requirements.
Information to prepare for the Regional Events Fund application
Information to Prepare:
- Detailed event description and positioning
- Tourism value projections
- Marketing strategy
- Budget and financial forecasts
See the guidelines and source website for full details of information requirements.
Applying for Regional Events Fund
Applications for the Regional Event Fund 2025-26 should be submitted through the South Australian Tourism Commission’s dedicated Regional Event Fund portal.
Register your interest with GrantHelper to explore your alignment with this grant and how we can assist you to increase your chances of success.
Regional Events Fund resources
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