Regional Arts Australia has announced eight recipients of its 2026 National Regional Arts Fellowship, with a total funding pool of $140,000 supporting artists and arts workers across regional, rural and remote Australia.

Federally funded through the Regional Arts Fund, the fellowship provides recipients with guaranteed income to pursue creative development, skills-building, research and professional networks.

Unlike project-based grants, the fellowship does not require artists to deliver a specific outcome, giving them the flexibility to determine their own priorities, timelines and creative direction. Fellowship activities will take place from September 2026 to August 2027.

The 2026 Fellows represent a broad range of artistic practices and communities.

Wiradyuri conceptual artist Amala Groom, based in Kelso, NSW, will develop The Constitution, continuing her multidisciplinary exploration of cultural sovereignty, Wiradyuri knowledge and the legacy of colonisation.

Goulburn-based Wiradjuri singer-songwriter and performer Axel Wellings, aged 19, will undertake From Country to Stage: Axel Wellings Fellowship Year, developing his songwriting, composition and vocal performance through advanced training and industry mentorship.

Darwin community arts practitioner Carlo Ansaldo will research established creative and community recovery models for implementation on Larrakia Country, building on his work in community programming and climate-focused arts practice.

South Australian cabaret artist, vocalist, writer and producer Charlee Watt will pursue...