From pioneering punk musicians and experimental sound artists to acclaimed poets, theatre directors and First Nations storytellers, the awards celebrate the artists whose work continues to shape and expand the nation’s creative life.
The Creative Australia Awards acknowledge artists at all stages of practice, spanning literature, visual arts, theatre, dance, music, experimental, community arts and cultural development, and the arts and disability sector.
Creative Australia CEO Adrian Collette AM said:
“These artists are bold, visionary and deeply connected to community. Whether redefining their artform or amplifying voices too often unheard, their work reminds us of the transformative power of creativity in Australian life.”
This year’s recipients include community arts leaders Moale James-Proud and Scotia Monkivitch, pioneering dance artist Rosalind Crisp, internationally recognised experimental artist Robin Fox, and acclaimed poet Judith Beveridge, recipient of the Lifetime Achievement in Literature Award.
Honoured with the Don Banks Award are two influential punk musicians Raymond Ahn and Peter (“Blackie”) Black. Theatre director Kate Champion is honoured for her three decades contributing to Australian performance. Leading contemporary artist Jenny Watson receives the Visual Arts Award.
The National Disability Arts Awards recognise artists at all stages of creative practice, recognising opportunities and pathways for artists with disability can occur early or later in life. Recipients include multidisciplinary artist, Yousef Alreemawi, who in recent years has led the Tarab Ensemble as part of his contemporary Arabic music practice, and Honor Eastly, whose acclaimed mental health storytelling is reaching national and international audiences.
Established artist Uncle Paul Constable-Calcott is acknowledged for his leadership as a First Nations artist and advocate in the arts and disability space.
Learn more about the recipients on our website.
Media contact:
Brianna Roberts, Media Manager
Creative Australia
Mobile: 0498 123 541
Email: brianna.roberts@creative.gov.au
