Country Arts WA recently announced and officially opened its Regional Arts Fund (RAF) funding programs for 2009 “ 2012.

Strategic Regional Partnerships – up to $150,000 over 3 years to assist regional communities to develop projects those have long-term impact and strategic intent. For more information contact the Regional Arts Development Manager.
Closing date: Expressions of Interest due 13 March 2009.

Arts Agencies – up to $150,000 over 3 years to assist regional communities by boosting their contact with professional arts workers. For more information contact the Regional Arts Development Manager.
Closing date: Expressions of Interest due 13 March 2009.

Projects & Residencies – up to $20,000 to support communities to work with professional artists to create innovative work in any artform, whilst developing partnerships in the community. For more information contact the Regional Arts Development Officer.
Up to $25,000 for applicants above the 26th parallel.
Closing dates: 13 March & 14 August 2009.

Mentorship Program – up to $25,000 to create partnerships between creative people to share knowledge and experience while developing new networks and skills. The Mentorship Program offers funding for both mid-career and emerging artists. For more information contact the Regional Arts Development Officer.
Up to $30,000 for applicants above the 26th parallel.
Closing date: 13 March 2009.

Quick Response Grants – up to $1,500 to support small-scale arts development initiatives and professional development opportunities. For more information contact the Regional Arts Development Officer.
Closing date: Open all year round.

Country Arts WA has identified several priority areas for funding across all grants which will apply to Regional Arts Fund applications. These priority areas are:
children and young people,
Indigenous arts and culture,
technology and
health and wellbeing.
In addition, applications from Country Arts WA’s focus region, the Mid West will be given priority in 2009.