Moyne launches Creative Residencies program

Published on 19 March 2026

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Moyne Shire Council is launching a new Creative Residencies program, activating selected Council-owned spaces and increasing access to creative workspace across the Shire.

The 12-month pilot delivers a key action of Council’s Arts and Culture Strategy and responds directly to strong feedback from community consultation. Access to affordable and suitable creative workspaces was consistently identified as a priority by local artists and creative practitioners.

Creative Residencies is a non-residential program, providing artists with no-cost access to dedicated workspaces to develop projects independently, without the requirement to deliver a public outcome.

Mayor, Cr Jordan Lockett said the initiative makes practical use of Council facilities to support regional creative practice.

“During consultation on our Arts and Culture Strategy, we heard loud and clear that access to space was a significant barrier for many creatives. This epic program is a direct response to that feedback and demonstrates our commitment to enabling creative practice across the Shire by removing barriers and opening up opportunities for local creatives.”

“This is a phenomenal opportunity to reimagine what’s possible within these buildings and support local creatives to flourish, while making sure the short-term spaces remain accessible for community use,” said Cr Lockett.

The pilot program includes four sites:

  • Montgomery Pavilion (Mortlake) – Short-term individual studio residencies
  • Killarney Pavilion (Killarney) – Short-term individual and small group residencies
  • Macarthur Depot (Macarthur) – A dedicated multi-tenant studio hub with fixed 12-month studio spaces
  • Nullawarre Hall (Nullawarre) – Large-format development space for groups and expanded practice

The program is funded through Council’s existing Arts and Culture operational budget.

Mayor Lockett said the pilot is a practical and considered step forward.

“This pilot will let us assess demand, understand the impact on Council operations, and refine the program before considering expanding it in future,” he said.

The program is open to artists and collaborators across disciplines, with priority given to Moyne-based applicants.

Applications open Thursday 19 March 2026 and close Sunday 19 April 2026.

For more information and to apply, visit www.moyne.vic.gov.au/Creative-Residencies or email creativemoyne@moyne.vic.gov.au

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