In 2025, 4,768 individual donors contributed towards a total of $2.42 million to support the work of 323 artists and arts organisations. The inaugural campaign broadened philanthropic support for the arts, with 48% of donors giving to participating artists and organisations for the first time, while 74% of participating artists and arts organisations reported growth in their fundraising skills and confidence. 

This year, more than 350 artists and arts organisations from across Australia are putting their vision forward and inviting Australians to support creative projects that matter to them. 

Among those taking part are musicians, dancers, singers, writers, storytellers, actors, filmmakers, directors, designers, photographers, sculptors, painters, and more. 

Australians can get involved by choosing a participating artist or arts organisation and making a donation, big or small. 

Australian singer-songwriter Gordi has lent her voice in support of the initiative: 

"Think about the value art adds to your life - how that album soundtracked your university years, how that painting provoked a lost memory, how you witnessed a theatrical performance that sparked a conversation and a breakthrough. We consume art in its final form, and experience it as a fully realised vision. But it takes hours, days, years to be developed. AusArt Day is your opportunity to support the process - not just the product." 

Creative Australia CEO Adrian Collette AM said:  

“Australians have a deep connection to arts and creativity. It’s in the music we listen to, the books we read, the stories we watch, the performances we experience and the creativity that shapes our communities. 

“Our research shows that 97% of Australians engage with the arts, often without necessarily thinking of it as ‘the arts’. AusArt Day is an opportunity to recognise the artists and organisations behind those experiences and directly support the work we value.

“The success of the first AusArt Day showed what is possible when artists, organisations and audiences come together. This year we want to build on that momentum and encourage more Australians to become part of the culture of giving to the arts. 

“A donation doesn’t have to be large to make a difference. Collectively, those acts of support help artists make new work, organisations reach communities and Australian creativity continue to thrive.” 

Delivered by Creative Australia, in response to overwhelming industry demand, AusArt Day brings artists and arts organisations together for one powerful day to showcase their work, connect with audiences, and raise funds to turn their creative vision into something real, for us all to experience and enjoy. 

Participation is free and open to all Australian artists and arts organisations, with each choosing their preferred fundraising platform. 

Creative Australia is proudly supporting AusArt Day, by contributing resources, workshops, and advertising materials to help participants prepare their own unique fundraising campaigns, and $500,000 in microgrants to support participants to develop their fundraising campaigns. 

View the list of participating artists and arts organisations in the 2026 Participant Gallery and click on the DONATE button to support the creativity you love. 

AusArt Day takes place on Thursday 22 October 2026. 

Media contact: 

For enquiries regarding AusArt Day: 

Julie Clark, Founder, Humankind PR \
Mobile: 0409 517 738  
Email: julie@humankindpr.com  

For Creative Australia enquiries: 

Brianna Roberts, Senior Media Manager, Creative Australia 
Mobile: 0498 123 541 
Email: brianna.roberts@creative.gov.au