Funding of up to $150,000 to support and increase regional access to high-quality performing arts experiences and amplify local creative voices across regional Western Australia.
Current status of program
Opening Soon
Applications will open on 2 September 2025.
To register your interest in seeking our assistance with applying, please contact us here.
On this page you will find
What is the Regional Performing Arts?
The Regional Performing Arts Program is a funding initiative by the Department of Local Government, Sport and Cultural Industries (DLGSC)—soon to be renamed the Department of Creative Industries, Tourism and Sport from 1 July 2025. It supports the development and presentation of performing arts in regional Western Australia through two distinct funding streams:
- Made in WA – For the development and premiere of new, regionally relevant performance-based works.
- Playing WA – For the regional touring of tour-ready WA productions.
This program is designed to increase regional access to high-quality performing arts experiences and amplify local creative voices across the state.
Regional Performing Arts level of support
- Applicants can apply for up to $150,000 in either stream—Made in WA or Playing WA—to support the direct regional costs associated with the project.
- Applicants must demonstrate at least 20% of total project income from other sources (including in-kind contributions). Therefore, the program provides up to 80% of the total project cost. Applications without the required co-contribution will be deemed ineligible.
Regional Performing Arts important dates
- Applications open: 2 September 2025
- Draft review deadline: 25 September 2025 (4:00pm AWST)
- Applications close: 9 October 2025 (4:00pm AWST)
- Projects may begin from: 15 January 2026
- Applicants are encouraged to submit their applications well ahead of the deadline to avoid last-minute issues.
- Register your interest with GrantHelper
Regional Performing Arts objectives
To be successful, your application must align with at least two of the following program objectives:
- Increase the number, quality and variety of performance-based works in regional WA.
- Showcase unique Western Australian stories that resonate with local communities.
- Engage new audiences and enhance the liveability of regional towns.
- Foster partnerships between artists, arts organisations, regional venues and communities.
- Provide employment and professional development for regional artists and arts workers.
- Enhance access and participation for Aboriginal communities and young people.
Projects and expenditure eligible for Regional Performing Arts support
Made in WA
Projects must:
- Involve the development of new performing arts work.
- Be regionally relevant and responsive to regional community contexts.
- Premiere at a regional WA venue or festival.
Preferred projects will involve collaborations with:
- Regional artists or small-to-medium arts organisations.
- Aboriginal communities or organisations.
- National and international arts organisations or festivals.
Playing WA
Projects must:
- Involve a tour-ready production (either previously staged or with a proven track record).
- Be paid and ticketed.
- Include at least one performance at a professionally equipped regional venue.
- Be staged in at least two regional or remote WA communities.
- Be open to the general public.
Ineligible Expenditure Includes:
- International travel.
- Capital works, instruments, or equipment purchases (including software and uniforms).
- Radio, podcasting, audiobooks, or digital game development.
- Film, television, and screenwriting.
- Curriculum-based activities and school-assessed projects.
- Fundraising, trophies, or ongoing staffing/operational costs.
- Activities delivered by or for government departments.
Other Regional Performing Arts important details that you will need to know
Organisations eligible for Regional Performing Arts support
Made in WA:
- WA-based artists or arts organisations in partnership with a regional WA venue or festival.
- Either the artist or the venue may be the lead applicant, but the venue must have the capacity to receive or produce touring works.
Playing WA:
- WA-based performing arts groups, organisations or individuals.
- Applicants with current Playing WA Multiyear funding are not eligible for this round.
See the guidelines for full details of organisational requirements.
Regional Performing Arts assessment criteria
Applications will be assessed by a peer panel against the following criteria:
1. Quality – 20%
- Artistic and cultural merit, relevance, demonstrated track record.
2. Reach – 30%
- Potential audience engagement, marketing strategy, regional impact.
3. Good Planning – 25%
- Feasibility, timelines, personnel, community consultation.
4. Financial Responsibility – 25%
- Accurate budgeting, co-funding sources, efficient resource use.
How do I get the Regional Performing Arts?
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/s as outlined in the application.
- Provide complete information requirements.
Information to prepare for the Regional Performing Arts application
Mandatory Support Materials:
- Marketing and community engagement plan.
- Quotes for major expenses.
- Evidence of:
- Venue partnership agreement (Made in WA).
- Tour readiness (Playing WA).
Playing WA Applicants Only:
- Regional Grant Funding Allocation Form (Excel).
- Touring Agreement.
- Touring Party Workbook.
Ensure all support materials meet format and file size requirements as outlined in the guidelines.
See the guidelines for full details of information requirements.
Applying for the Regional Performing Arts
Applications must be submitted via the Online Grants 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 Performing Arts resources
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