More than 2000 artists and cultural workers across New South Wales are set to benefit from over $7 million in funding, with Create NSW announcing the recipients of Round 1 of its 2024/25 Arts and Cultural Funding Program (ACFP).

A total of 193 arts and cultural projects will receive support through the program, which has been significantly reformed to increase accessibility, especially for under-represented communities and smaller-scale initiatives.

The funding will support a wide range of creative activity, from new artistic works and professional development opportunities to cultural access initiatives and First Nations-led projects.

Secrets of Dawn Exhibition Coota Girls Aboriginal Corporation. Photo © Adam Scarf Photography

The first round attracted 479 eligible applications across 10 artforms, with 259 First Nations artists and cultural workers among those to receive funding.

Approximately $1.4 million has been earmarked specifically for First Nations projects, reinforcing the NSW Government’s commitment to truth-telling and cultural preservation.

Regional NSW has emerged as a major focus, securing over $3 million – 44 percent of the total investment – to support 80 projects involving 829 artists. Many regional applicants attended Create NSW’s outreach sessions held in 15 centres across the state late...