17/02/2026

A grant of just under $100,000 will go towards hosting 12 national and international artists for three-week residencies.

The program is guided by the Djaara seasons and grounded in partnerships with First Nations-led organisations in Victoria, alongside key partners across the Asia-Pacific region.

These residencies are supported by LAI's purpose‑built facilities (including an apartment, studio and auditorium) and our strong relationships with local artists, cultural organisations and La Trobe researchers across disciplines such as health, education, law and science.

Visiting artists are paired with local artist hosts, fostering meaningful exchange, paid professional development and sustained relationships.

This funding builds upon on the previous art residency program delivered in 2024-25, that was also supported by Creative Australia.

The number of artists and organisations to receive funding has increased in recent years thanks to an uplift in funding to Creative Australia which has invested 44% more in creative practice in 2024-25 than it did in 2021-22.

These funding decisions were made through Creative Australia's independent peer assessment process, at arm's length from government.

QUOTES ATTRIBUTABLE TO FEDERAL MEMBER FOR BENDIGO, LISA CHESTERS MP:

"I am proud the Federal Labor Government will continue to support the La Trobe Art Institute Residency Program.

"Our Government's increased funding for the Arts via Creative Australia, is allowing more arts organisations to receive funding and more artists to tell their stories."

QUOTES ATTRIBUTABLE TO LA TROBE BENDIGO HEAD OF CAMPUS, MARGARET O'ROURKE:

"Building on previous support, this new investment from Creative Australia will strengthen the La Trobe Art Institute's residency program on Djaara Country, recognising the vital role Bendigo plays in fostering creative practice and cultural leadership.

"This support enhances our capacity to welcome artists from across Australia and the Asia-Pacific, deepening connections between our campus, community and the broader creative sector."

QUOTES ATTRIBUTABLE TO LA TROBE ART INSTITUTE DIRECTOR, DR KAREN ANNETT:

"Creative Australia's support allows us to extend and refine our residency program over 2026-27, building on the strong foundations established last year.

"Guided by the Djaara seasons and partnerships with First Nations-led organisations, the program creates meaningful space for artists to engage deeply with place, research and community on Djaara Country.

"Exchange across the Asia-Pacific region ensures this work is locally grounded while globally connected. By looking closely at our local context and engaging deeply with community, we are able to think and act globally, strengthening the vibrancy of our region while ensuring the impact of this work extends well beyond Bendigo."