Australia’s diverse landscapes, vibrant cultural scenes, and strong support for the arts make it an exceptional destination for international artists seeking immersive experiences. These residencies offer not just creative space but also opportunities for cultural exchange, professional development, and inspiration from Indigenous heritage and natural wonders. For Artinfoland Magazine readers, we’ve curated the top 2 fully funded international artist residencies in Australia for 2025–2026, selected for their comprehensive support (including stipends, accommodation, travel assistance, and studio access) while prioritizing programs open to global applicants. These opportunities are ideal for advancing your career through experimentation, collaboration, and public engagement. Each residency welcomes international artists across disciplines like visual arts, performance, and interdisciplinary practices, with details drawn from reliable sources like Creative Australia, Res Artis, and official program websites. Funding is fully covered (no fees for selected artists), but verify eligibility and current details on the websites, as programs may evolve.
1. Bundanon Artists in Residence Program
Bundanon, located on the stunning Shoalhaven River in New South Wales, is one of Australia’s premier arts trusts, established through the legacy of artist Arthur Boyd. This residency supports artists, researchers, and collaborators in creating new work amid 1,100 hectares of bushland and riverside properties, fostering connections to Country and environmental themes.
Funding: Fully funded; includes accommodation (self-contained houses or cabins for individuals/groups), studio spaces, meals (groceries provided), and a project grant (up to AUD $5,000 for materials/production). Travel assistance available for international artists.
Duration: 2–5 weeks (up to 3 months for larger groups), year-round in 2025–2026.
Eligibility: Open to international artists (all disciplines: visual arts, performance, literature, music) at any career stage. Preference for projects engaging with place, sustainability, or Indigenous perspectives; groups/collaboratives encouraged.
Application Process: Submit a portfolio (10–20 works/images), CV, project proposal (1–2 pages outlining residency goals and outcomes), and references via www.bundanon.com.au/residencies. Rolling applications; next round opens early 2025.
Why Apply?: Bundanon’s remote yet accessible setting inspires site-specific work, with access to historic Boyd properties and opportunities for public presentations or exhibitions. Past international residents, like UK artist Rachel Whiteread, have used it for groundbreaking environmental installations, building global networks through Bundanon’s partnerships.
2. The Farm Margaret River Funded Residency
Nestled in the biodiverse Margaret River region of Western Australia, The Farm is a creative hub on Wadandi Country, emphasizing site-responsive art and ecological themes. This residency supports visual and interdisciplinary artists in developing projects that respond to the natural environment.
Funding: Fully funded; covers all costs including accommodation (self-contained studio cottage), studio space, meals (groceries and communal dining), materials/equipment (up to AUD $10,000 project budget), travel (flights from international origin + local transport), insurance, and a living stipend (AUD $1,000/week for 5–8 weeks).
Duration: 5–8 weeks, between February and October 2026 (applications for 2025 select 2026 slots).
Eligibility: Open to international emerging or mid-career visual artists (painting, sculpture, installation, digital media). Must hold a driver’s license (international OK); projects should engage with sustainability or place-based themes.
Application Process: Apply via www.thefarmmargaretriver.com.au/residency with a portfolio (15–20 images/videos), CV, project proposal (detailing site-specific ideas), and 2 references. Applications open March 1, 2025; close June 2, 2025.
Why Apply?: The Farm’s rural isolation and ancient landscapes (vineyards, forests, coast) provide uninterrupted focus, with mentorship from local artists and opportunities for community exhibitions. International alumni, such as New Zealand sculptor Aroha Novak, have produced acclaimed eco-artworks, enhancing career visibility through The Farm’s biennial programs.
Artinfoland Magazine’s Mission for Artists
At Artinfolan Magazine, our goal is to empower artists by connecting them with transformative opportunities that fuel creative and professional growth. We are dedicated to curating resources like residencies, grants, and exhibitions that help artists at all career stages thrive. By highlighting programs that offer financial support, cultural immersion, and networking, we aim to inspire and equip you to advance your practice, build global connections, and contribute to the vibrant art world. Whether you’re a painter, performer, or writer, Artinfolan Magazine is your partner in navigating the path to a successful artistic career.
I’m interested in any residency opportunities best Cathy Carter