Development Grants 2025

Have a big idea, a project ready to take off, or a skill you’re eager to level up?

Our Development Grants offer up to $3,000 to help emerging creatives turn ambition into action to kickstart new projects, research and develop ideas or new works, or build skills, markets and creative practices.

This grant is your opportunity for:

  • Creating and showcasing new work
  • Developing fresh ideas through research and experimentation
  • Building skills that set you apart
  • Gaining guidance through creative or business mentorships
  • Expanding your horizons through professional development programs

Whether you’re pushing the boundaries of your medium or exploring new creative directions, this grant is designed to back your growth and your future.

Real Impact: Jack Calver’s Story

Jack, a theatremaker and graduate of Flinders University, received a Creative Development Grant in 2023, and it changed everything.
Jack holds a Bachelor of Creative Arts (Drama) and specialises in acting and producing. With the funds, he brought to life his post–grad debut; a satirical and absurdist theatrical interpretation of Romeo and Juliet. Numerous industry professionals attended Jack’s production, and it was featured in various reviews and critiques.

The experience was more than simply a career milestone for Jack, it was transformative. With the grant’s support, he expanded his practice, connected with creatives from the international landscape, and stepped into the arts scene as a force to be reckoned with.

“This grant removed a multitude of barriers that so often prevent new graduates from creating their own work, allowing me to continue developing my skills and showcase my SA-based acting training to the Australian theatre industry interstate.”
Jack Calver, Development Grants 2023 recipient.

BEFORE YOU START YOUR APPLICATION
Please check your eligibility here.
Make sure you read the Information for Applicants guidelines thoroughly and review the application form in detail. We recommend that you read our Grant Writing Tip Sheet and adhere to the advice.

KEY DATES
Applications open on Monday 1 September 2025
Applications close on Sunday 19 October 2025 at 11:59pm ACST
For activity occurring between 1 January 2026 – 31 December 2026

FOR MORE INFORMATION
Interested applicants are encouraged to get in touch to discuss how we can help with your application. Please contact the Helpmann team via info@helpmannacademy.com.au, or call us on (08) 7089 0720.

Image: Jack Calver in ‘Unfair Verona’. Image supplied.

Development Grants are made possible through the generosity of John Phillips, the Spark a Dream campaign patrons, and the Government of South Australia, through CreateSA.

KEY DATES

APPLICATIONS CLOSE SUNDAY 19 OCTOBER 2025 at 11:59pm ACST
For activity occurring between 1 January 2026 – 31 December 2026