Regional Arts Development Fund (RADF)

The Regional Arts Development Fund (RADF) is delivered as a partnership between the Queensland Government through Arts Queensland and eligible local councils across the state.

RADF promotes the role and value of arts, culture and heritage as key drivers of diverse and inclusive communities and strong regions. RADF invests in local arts and cultural priorities, as determined by local communities, across Queensland.

There are five categories of funding available for individuals, groups, organisations and council:

  • Professional development
  • Projects and programs
  • Concept development/creation of new work
  • Green arts
  • Young people

RADF is managed by the Arts Development Officer in partnership with the RADF Community Committee based on locally determined priorities identified through our Arts and Culture Strategy 2025-2030(PDF, 5MB)

Always check the guidelines for eligibility and priorities before applying:

Rounds for 2026/2027

Round One

  • Now open (apply here) June 15, 2026, for projects starting after November 16, 2026.
  • Closed September 25, 2026.

Round Two

  • Opens December 7, 2026, for projects that start after May 30, 2027.
  • Closes April 7, 2027.

How to apply

Applications are submitted through Mackay Regional Council Grants: Smarty Grants.

If you haven’t already done so, create a free Smarty Grants profile by going to the 'Log in' on the top left of the screen and then select the 'Register here' link.

To start your application, select the current RADF round that will be open, it is listed under the section ‘Current rounds’. Please note there may be several different grant options on this page, be sure to select the right one.

If you have any questions or issues about your application please call or email the Arts Development Officer: creative@mackay@qld.gov.au or call 1300 MACKAY (622 529).

 

Plan your project

Project proposal and planning

Budget preparation

Public art guidelines and applications

 

Prepare your application

Grant writing support

Writing a letter of support

Artist CVs and professional materials

Support material (images, video, documentation)

 

Deliver your project

Risk management

Accessibility and inclusion

Cultural protocols and First Nations engagement

 

Evaluate and promote your project

Project evaluation

Surveys and feedback

 

Professional practice and sector resources

Payment guides and fair pay

Arts worker resources

National cultural policy

 

Council links and information

Useful links

Other funding sources

RADF Committee

The Regional Arts Development Fund (RADF) Committee plays an important role in supporting the growth and sustainability of arts and culture across the Mackay region. The committee assesses each rounds applications and provides recommendations for funding to Council.

Role of the Committee

The RADF Committee:

  • Assesses RADF grant applications against program objectives and funding criteria
  • Provides strategic advice on local arts and cultural development priorities
  • Supports transparent, equitable and accountable decision-making
  • Advocates for strong arts and cultural outcomes within the region

Committee Membership

The committee is comprised of representatives with experience and knowledge across a range of arts, cultural and community sectors. Membership aims to reflect the diversity of the region and its creative practices.

Community members with relevant skills, experience or a strong interest in arts and culture are encouraged to apply.

Expressions of Interest

From time to time, Council invites expressions of interest from community members interested in joining the RADF Committee.

Submit an expression of interest

Meet the current RADF Committee

Previous successful applicants

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