How to Apply: Step-by-Step

Step 1: Find the Right Program

Use the Arts Grants Handbook to determine which funding program and category is suitable for your project. At the outset you should also check the following:

• That you are eligible to apply – also check eligibility for your Program
• That the closing and activity start dates fit with your proposed project
• That your project meets the overarching assessment criteria and the assessment criteria for the Category you want to apply to.

If you are unsure, contact a Project Officer for advice.

Step 2: Get the Application Form

You can download the Arts Grants Application Form or you can contact the Department on (08) 9224 7310 or toll-free 1800 199 090 (Country WA callers only) or email info@dca.wa.gov.au to have one posted to you.

Step 3: Prepare a Draft

When drafting your application remember that your application will be assessed against both the overarching Arts Grants assessment criteria and the Program and Category specific criteria. It is important that you answer the questions in the application form as completely as possible and assume that the Panel does not have any prior background on you or your project.

When your draft is complete you can request a Project Officer to read over it and give you feedback. Advice should be sought as early as possible prior to the grant round closing date.

This advice will not guarantee the success of your application and should be used at your discretion. Whilst Project Officers may provide advice it is your responsibility to ensure you are aware of and meet the requirements of the Arts Grants Program.

Further information can also be found in the feedback from the Panel reports.

Step 4: Assemble Your Support - Materials

Collating your support material can take time as you may be relying on others to provide you with letters or information. Refer to support material and that of the category you want to apply to, for details of what support material must be submitted.

Step 5: Submit

Before you submit your application, run through the checklist at the front of the application form to make sure you have remembered everything.

Applications, along with all support materials, must be submitted on the relevant closing date. See pages 2–4 for details. Hand delivered applications must be at DCA by 5pm sharp. Postal applications must be postmarked on the due date. Please check with your local post office to ensure your application is postmarked on the correct date or contact your Project Officer if you have any concerns. 

Step 6: Notification

The Department will notify you by letter as to whether or not your application has been successful.

Step 7: Review

After you receive notification, you may contact the relevant Project Officer to discuss the Panel’s feedback.

Step 8: Acquittal

If you have been successful, you will be required to provide an acquittal report.

An acquittal is a written account of how funds received for a particular purpose have been spent. It is a legal requirement for the Department to obtain acquittals from all individuals, groups and organisations in receipt of State funds through the Grants Program.

Acquittals should be received within 13 weeks of the completion of the project or activity. Failure to provide an acquittal makes an individual, group or organisation ineligible for future grants.