John Williams the Nationals Member for Murray-Darling today encouraged Indigenous arts organisations and individual artists in the Murray-Darling region to apply for a share of $100,000 in Government funding to help showcase and promote Aboriginal arts.

The funding, through the Aboriginal Regional Arts Fund (ARAF), aims to support projects that promote and celebrate Indigenous arts in rural NSW.

'Funding is available of up to $3,000 for individual artists and $15,000 for organisations.

'Arts projects with Aboriginal people in key creative roles, or which incorporate Aboriginal people as key presenters of the work are eligible to apply.

'ARAF funding is available for projects such as workshops, performances, exhibitions, festivals or events, and artist-in-residence programs.

Applications must be for programs that commence after 1 July, 2013. Applications close on 18 March, 2013.

Mr Williams said initiatives such as this increase participation of NSW Aboriginal people in arts and cultural activities and promote greater recognition and appreciation of NSW Aboriginal arts and cultural practice.

Arts Minister, George Souris, said Aboriginal artists and arts groups in rural NSW contribute to the social and cultural richness of the nation. As such, the NSW Government believes it is important to do all it can to help them succeed.

“As home to the largest Indigenous community in Australia, NSW Aboriginal artists are producing high-quality works that fuse traditional stories and culture with contemporary art forms and media,” Mr Souris said.

Minister for Aboriginal Affairs, Victor Dominello, said the active participation by Aboriginal people in the arts and cultural sectors boosts their capacity to keep their culture and communities strong.

“The arts also promote broader respect and understanding of Indigenous cultures by the broader community and provide positive role models for younger generations of Aboriginal kids.

For more information and to apply, see Arts NSW website www.arts.nsw.gov.au, email arts.funding@arts.nsw.gov.au, or phone 1800 358 594 (freecall).