RAF: VIC Quick Response Grants Program (Australia)

The Regional Arts Fund (RAF) “VIC 2026-09 Quick Response Grants” provides support for short-notice professional development and small activity opportunities in Victoria. Applications are accepted until midnight (end of day) 30 September 2026 (AEST). The grants are administered through the Regional Arts Program Administrator for the state or territory where the applicant’s Australian Business Number (ABN) is registered. Opportunity at a Glance

- Opportunity name: RAF: VIC 2026-09 Quick Response Grants

- Funding program/provider: Regional Arts Fund (Regional Arts Program Administrator for VIC)

- Funding type: Quick Response Grants (short-notice support for arts workers and community arts activities)

- Deadline: 30 September 2026 at midnight (end of day), AEST

- Geographic focus: Eligible non-metropolitan locations (using the Modified Monash Model codes MM2 to MM7)

- Application portal: SmartyGrants (submission form hosted on the official round page)

- Activity timing requirement: Activity must take place within 2–12 weeks from the closing date of this grant round

- Priority for timing: Activities with a critical start date within 2–6 weeks from the closing date will be prioritised

About the Opportunity

Quick Response Grants under the Regional Arts Fund are designed to meet an immediate need in the arts sector where an activity cannot be planned for or supported through other funding rounds. This includes short-notice professional development and skills development for artists and arts workers, as well as small activity opportunities. A key feature of this grant round is the required delivery window after the grant closes—supporting activities that start soon and can be completed within a defined timeframe. Funding and Benefits The source page describes what the Quick Response Grants are intended to fund, but it does not specify: - the maximum grant amount per project/recipient, - the total funding pool, or - whether any cost-sharing or in-kind contributions are required. For the official financial limits and eligible cost details, applicants should consult the Regional Arts Fund Grants Guidelines and the Regional Arts Fund Eligibility Notes referenced on the round page. Who Is Eligible? Eligible applicant types To be eligible for a Regional Arts Fund (RAF) Quick Response Grant, applicants must be one of the following: - An individual - An Australian incorporated organisation - A company limited by guarantee - A local government organisation ABN and registration requirements

Eligibility also depends on ABN status and matching details

- Applicants must have an active Australian Business Number (ABN). - The ABN must be registered to the applicant’s name and location. - The ABN provided must match the applicant’s name and current address. Applicants should ensure the ABN is up to date by checking the Australian Business Register. - Applicants may only apply for funding from the Regional Arts Program Administrator that represents the state or territory where their ABN is registered. Unincorporated groups and schools - Unincorporated groups are eligible if auspiced by an organisation that meets the eligible applicant criteria above. - Individuals under 18 are eligible if auspiced by an individual over 18 with an active ABN. - Schools are only eligible if located in a very remote area (MM7) as defined using the Modified Monash Model. Location eligibility (metropolitan restrictions) - Organisations or individuals based in metropolitan locations are not eligible to apply for the Regional Arts Fund. - Metropolitan applicants can still participate if they partner with a regional organisation/community to deliver the project—the regional organisation/community should submit the application. How location eligibility is determined The Regional Arts Fund uses the Modified Monash Model (MMM) to classify remoteness: - Applicants should use the Modified Monash Model remoteness classification and select the most recent year. - All locations with codes from MM2 to MM7 are eligible. - Applicants are directed to use the Health Workforce Locator tool to check eligibility, entering a primary physical address (not a PO Box or postal address). Eligible Activities or Priority Areas What Quick Response Grants fund

This grant round funds:

- Professional development opportunities for artists and arts workers, or - Small activity opportunities that address an immediate need. Examples provided in the source include activities that arise where the activity is unable to be planned for or supported in other funding rounds (such as at short notice). When the activity must take place - The activity must take place within 2–12 weeks from the closing date of this grant round. - Priority will be given to activities with a critical start date within 2–6 weeks from the closing date. Why This Opportunity Matters If you are an eligible arts organisation, arts worker, or auspiced applicant who needs to respond to a time-sensitive opportunity—such as professional development available at short notice—Quick Response Grants are structured to support those needs outside longer planning cycles. The location and timing requirements (non-metropolitan areas and a defined delivery window after the close) ensure funds target activities that can be delivered quickly and in eligible regions. How to Apply - Prepare before starting the application - Read the Regional Arts Fund Grants Guidelines and the Regional Arts Fund Eligibility Notes (the round page states these contain key information on eligible applicant types, eligible expenses, and assessment criteria). - Confirm your eligibility first

- Verify:

- your ABN details match your name and current address, and - your location is eligible under the Modified Monash Model (MM2–MM7). - Make sure you are applying through the Regional Arts Program Administrator for the state/territory where your ABN is registered. - Submit via the SmartyGrants application form - The opportunity page is hosted on Sm