Community groups and individuals across the Macedon Ranges have two new opportunities to get involved in Victoria’s creative life – by presenting local performances or by stepping into leadership roles on major cultural boards.
The next round of the Small Regional Presenters Program is now open, offering grants of up to $15,000 to help community groups and not-for-profit organisations stage performing arts events in their towns. The program also supports local venues and presenters to develop their skills, plan for the future and build audiences.
Previous rounds have supported a wide variety of events, including comedy shows, children’s concerts, acoustic music series, cabaret and circus performances across regional Victoria. The program is delivered by Regional Arts Victoria, which supports creative organisations and events across the state.
“Victoria’s regions are a wealth of exciting creative talent,” said Member for Macedon Mary-Anne Thomas. “The Small Regional Presenters program ensures that no matter where they live, our creatives have the opportunity to share their ideas and work with their communities, and reach new audiences across right across the state.”
At the same time, expressions of interest are open for people interested in joining the boards of Victoria’s major cultural organisations, including ACMI, Arts Centre Melbourne, Museums Victoria, the National Gallery of Victoria and several non-government creative organisations such as Victorian Opera and ACCA.
The state government is seeking candidates with a wide range of skills – including financial management, governance, law, sponsorship, marketing and community engagement – and encourages applications from people of all ages and backgrounds, including those from rural and regional Victoria.
“Victoria’s creative agencies are an important part of our cultural landscape,” said Ms Thomas. “We want to ensure that they attract leaders from across the state, and all walks of life.”
Information about the Small Regional Presenters Program is available on the Regional Arts Victoria website, and details about board opportunities can be found at Join a Public Board on the Victorian Government website. Expressions of interest for board roles close at 11:59 pm on 8 October 2025.
This article is based on a media release from the office of Member for Macedon, Mary-Anne Thomas.
