Museums & Galleries of NSW – Program Updates for 2026

With revised Create NSW funding from 2026, Museums & Galleries of NSW is embarking on a renewed delivery model that will bring both continuity and changes to our programs.

We will maintain most of our existing programs; however, some initiatives will be delivered differently. The key changes will be seen across some devolved funding programs, which will be supported by M&G NSW investment and the establishment of new partnerships. But this means that some programs may become more competitive.

The changes will allow us to continue supporting the sector with greater flexibility to respond to emerging needs.

Our priorities remain: to support small-to-medium museums, galleries and Aboriginal cultural centres; build skills and capabilities; advocate for the sector; and ensure communities across NSW have access to meaningful cultural experiences.

CONTINUING

Exhibition Touring
Standards Program
Museum Advisors Program
Dobell Exhibition Grant
IMAGinE Awards
Communications (Alert)
Sector Advocacy & Research
Disaster Response
Partnerships and events with cultural institutions institutions
Sector Advice Service
NSW NETS Agency

CHANGING & EVOLVING

Volunteer Museum Grants
The Small Grants, Skills Development, Leg Up, and Project Development Grants will be consolidated into a single program, with applicants able to apply for projects of up to $4,000.

Audience Development Fund
With M&G NSW investment, this program will continue and will be broadened to accept applications from public museums.

Fellowships, Mentorships & Volunteer Placements
Mentorships and Volunteer Placements will be delivered with the support of state cultural institutions, other agencies and M&G NSW investment. International Fellowships will be discontinued. These changes will come into effect following the current round closing on 10 December 2025.

Storyplace
Storyplace has been brought into the organisational structure as an ongoing program.

Mentoring Program
We will pilot a one-on-one mentoring initiative to provide tailored career development support.

Lights On, Doors Open stipend program
We will continue to advocate and lobby for ongoing funding.

M&G NSW Staff Regional Outreach
Greater capacity for on the ground listening to the sector and developing relevant initiatives.