Event Funding Program Round 2 Applications for 2025–26 Now Open

Round 2 of the 2025–26 Event Funding Program (EFP) is now open, offering event organisers across the Northern Territory another opportunity to secure support for festivals, cultural and major sporting events that attract visitors, create jobs and strengthen local economies.

Following strong demand in Round 1, Tourism and Events NT is inviting applications from events of all sizes, from community‑driven festivals to large‑scale productions that deliver national exposure and showcase what makes the Territory unique. Round 1 supported some of the NT’s most iconic events, including the Darwin Comedy Festival, NT Writers Festival, Garrmalang Festival, Barunga Festival, Finke Desert Race, Garma Festival, Chariots of Thunder, and the Darwin Aboriginal Art Fair and Country to Couture.

Darwin Fringe Festival Director Hannah Illingworth said the program has played a vital role in growing the festival and supporting the Territory’s creative sector. “Support from Tourism and Events NT has grown Australia’s most Northern Fringe Festival into the biggest platform for emerging, independent and experimental artists in the NT, allowing us to employ more locals, present even more artists and create higher‑quality experiences for our audiences and community,” she said. “This financial support allows us to focus on collaboration, assuring that more supported opportunities are available for the local creative industries.”

To assist applicants, an industry briefing and networking session will be held on Thursday 12 February from 5pm in Darwin, with online access available for organisers based elsewhere in the Territory. The session will explore event trends, operational insights, alternative funding pathways and practical tips for preparing a strong application. Attendees will also have the chance to connect with peers and speak directly with the EFP team.

Event organisers considering applying, including those who have applied in previous rounds, are strongly encouraged to take part. The briefing is one of several initiatives designed to support high‑quality event delivery and improve the applicant experience across the NT.

Round 2 of the Event Funding Program closes at 5pm on Friday 6 March 2026.