Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Got a question about the Program Callout? Find answers here.

A shrine for all you gave me, Jasmine Miikika Craciun, 2024. Photo: Jessica Maurer.

How do I apply?

1. Read the Program Guide for the program stream you are applying for

2. Prepare your proposal and support material as outlined, and submit it via the online form, along with your details.

Do you accept mailed or hardcopy applications?

No. If you need support applying, or would like to request an alternative application pathway, please email program@firstdraft.org.au or call us on +61 2 8970 2999 by 5pm Thursday 24 April 2025.

When do applications close?

1. Applications for our Live Events and Public Program are open year round. 

   We request that your applications be submitted with a reasonable lead time.

   Applications for large-scale projects (involving multiple performers or components) are required at least 6 - 8 weeks prior to the proposed start date.

2. Applications for the Exhibitions and Curator Program will open Tuesday April 1st 2025 5:00pm and close Friday 2 May 2025 11:59pm.

How long will it take before I find out if my application was successful?

1. Applicants for Firstdraft’s live events and public programs will be informed within 2 - 3 weeks of their application being submitted 

2. Applicants for the Exhibition and Curator program will be informed of the outcome of their applications by the beginning of June 2025.

What do I receive if my application is successful?

Depending on the program through which you apply, you’ll receive;

• a presentation or publication opportunity, 

• fees, 

• production assistance 

• marketing and communications support 

• professional photographic documentation of your exhibition

• public engagement through programs and events.

Application Criteria

Can I apply with my friends or a group of artists?

Yes! You can apply as a group – just pick one main contact to complete and submit the application form for group exhibitions. Curators are encouraged to apply through the Curators Program.

Can I apply for multiple programs? e.g. Can I submit an application for the Exhibition Program and the Curators Program?

1. You can apply for multiple programs, however, you will be required to submit a separate application form for each program in which you are applying.

2. Applicants should also note that, if successful, they will only be awarded in one program.

I don’t live in Sydney – can I apply?

Yes! Firstdraft can support regionally based and interstate artists with a Travel Bursary up to $1,000, depending on your residential address.

Who assesses my application?

A programming committee consisting of Firstdraft Staff, Artistic Advisory Committee and cultural advisor/s reads all applications individually before discussing them collectively. They are artists, writers, curators and arts professionals with experience across multiple contexts and disciplines.

How do you make your decisions?

We assess applications against a variety of criteria, including;

• Artistic merit, 

• Responsiveness to contemporary discourse, 

• Capacity to deliver the project (both applicants and Firstdraft)

• Geographic, demographic, art form diversity and representation across the entire program.

Application Support

Is there someone I can talk to about my application?

Join our online information session (auslan interpreted) on Wednesday 16 April 2025 6:30pm.

Email program@firstdraft.org.au with any questions. 

Alternatively, call us on +61 2 8970 2999, 

or drop in for a chat any time from 11am – 8pm Wednesday, Thursday–Saturday 11am - 5pm.

I need support with the application process – can you help?

If you need support applying, or if you have a disability that requires adjustment to the application process or an alternative application pathway, please email program@firstdraft.org.au or call us on +61 2 8970 2999 (by 5pm Thursday 24 April 2025 for applications for our Exhibitions and Curator program).

Note: we allow for audio/video proposals to be included in your application.

I am having trouble with the online form – can you help?

If you are experiencing technical issues with the online form, please email program@firstdraft.org.au or call us on +61 2 8970 2999 (by 5pm Thursday 24 April 2025 for applications for our Exhibitions and Curator program).

Do you accept late applications?

Firstdraft is unable to accept applications after the closing time. While we have made every effort to make our application process as simple and accessible as possible we encourage you to allow for any technical difficulties or system errors that might occur. 

General

How do you define early-career?

A practitioner – e.g. an artist, curator or writer – of any age who fulfils at least one of the following;

• May not have an extensive exhibiting history,  

• May have been practising professionally for 5 - 10 years or less 

• Is currently studying or completed tertiary qualifications in their field less than 5 - 10 years ago

• May have taken a break and returned to their practice

• Has not won any major prizes or been a part of significant projects in state/national institutions

• Is not currently represented by a commercial gallery

We recognise that the pathways to becoming an established artist are different for everyone. We use a flexible definition and rely on artists to self-identify as early-career (or emerging if that is their preferred terminology). 

We also support mid-career or established artists who are exploring new and/ or experimental directions in their practice.

How can I see the spaces?

You can take a virtual tour of the spaces here.
View the images of the spaces here.
Download floor plans of the spaces here.
or visit us in person any time from 11am – 8pm Wednesday, Thursday-Saturday 11am - 5pm!

Will Firstdraft assist me during installation?

Unless otherwise agreed, exhibiting artists are responsible for the installation of their own work.

Does Firstdraft provide AV equipment?

Before the exhibition, we offer support to artists and curators by discussing their requirements for accessibility, assistance, transport and freight, lighting and wall painting, suspended elements, and audio/visual equipment loan. However, it's important to note that Firstdraft has limited equipment and resources, so our support during the installation and deinstallation process is also limited.

Does Firstdraft sell my work?

No, Firstdraft does not facilitate artwork sales and we do not take commission. You are welcome to list artwork prices and your contact details on your roomsheet, and buyers can get in touch with you directly.

Does Firstdraft pay Superannuation?

Yes, Firstdraft pays Superannuation directly to your nominated super account. We do not pay super to personal bank accounts

If my application is successful, Do I need an ABN (Australian Business Number)?

If you don’t have one when applying, you can provide it later.

If my application is successful, do I need Public Liability Insurance?

Artist is responsible for arranging appropriate public liability and artwork insurance. For insurance options and tips, check out this guide.

If you don’t have one when applying, you can provide it later.