A national day for the arts: artists and arts organisations gear up for first ever AusArt Day

Artists and arts organisations from across the country are joining forces for a new national day of giving to the arts.

 AusArt Day, taking place on 23 October, invites all Australians to show their support for artists and arts organisations by making a donation – big or small, to support the creativity they love. 

More than 100 artists and arts organisations have already signed up to take part in the inaugural celebration. 

From a DJ livestream to a First Nations choir and a coffee cabaret, participants are preparing innovative campaigns that will raise important funds and awareness of the contribution that arts and creativity make to our communities.  

Creative Australia is proudly supporting AusArt Day, contributing $500,000 in microgrants upfront, alongside resources, workshops, and advertising materials to help participants prepare fundraising campaigns.  

Artists and organisations can join AusArt Day by signing up here. Registration is free, and participants can choose their preferred fundraising platform, with options including the Australian Cultural Fund, which provides for tax deductible donations. 

Creative Australia Chair and AusArt Day Ambassador Professor Wesley Enoch AM said:  

“It really makes a difference when your community gets behind you. I’ve been involved in arts and Culture my whole working life and can tell you first hand the support of others matters. AusArt Day is a chance for Australians to show their support by getting behind the musicians, painters, dancers, actors, singers, sculptors, writers and all the creative people who make our country so vibrant and fun to be a part of. Backing people is an Australian tradition. I’m going to donate money on AusArt Day because I know I can make a difference.” 

A list of participating artists and arts organisations will be made available on Creative Australia’s website from early October.