North Sydney Council is inviting artists, writers and creative practitioners to apply for the 2027 Creative Spaces and Don Bank Writer in Residence programs, which opened on 6 October 2026 and close on 6 November 2026.
The Creative Spaces Program supports artists and creatives to make, work, learn and engage with the wider North Sydney community on Cammeraygal Country. Each year, the program provides subsidised studio space for creative practitioners across four spaces.
Successful applicants receive access to subsidised studio space, professional development opportunities and the chance to share their work through artist talks, workshops, performances, demonstrations, presentations and community projects.
A key feature of the program is the dedicated First Nations Creative Residency based at Alfred Street Artists’ Studio, a fully subsidised opportunity for First Nations artists and collectives to develop new work, continue existing projects and engage with community on Cammeraygal Country.
Applications are also open for the Coal Loader Artist Residency, a unique program based at the Coal Loader Centre for Sustainability in Waverton. Situated within the heritage-listed former industrial site, the residency supports socially engaged and interdisciplinary creative practice with a focus on sustainability, environmental leadership, collective care and community participation
Council is also seeking applications for the Don Bank Writer in Residence program, delivered in partnership with Writing NSW. The residency supports emerging and established writers by providing dedicated time and space to develop new work, as well as access to tuition, mentoring and professional publishing industry guidance.
Catriona Pollard, a 2026 Primrose Park artist in residence, said having a dedicated artistic studio gave her time and space to be truly creative.
“The Primrose Park Artist Residency provides a wonderful environment for artists to immerse themselves in their practice. The location is exceptional, surrounded by beautiful natural surroundings that create a sense of calm, focus and connection to place,” Ms Pollard said.
Mayor Zoë Baker said the program helps ensure artists and creatives can continue to create, collaborate and contribute to community life in North Sydney.
“Creative practitioners play an important role in making North Sydney a vibrant, connected and culturally rich place to live,“ she said.
“By providing affordable creative spaces and professional opportunities, Council is helping artists and writers develop their work while creating valuable opportunities for the community to engage with local creativity and culture.”
Prospective applicants can learn more at an online information session on 27 October and by attending Open Studios on 31 October.
For more information and to apply, visit North Sydney Council’s website.
