Emerging First Nations Talent Program

 Are you or do you know a talented First Nations individual, with a passion for fashion, design, art, modelling, photography, hair and makeup, or event production?

Now in our fourth year of supporting emerging First Nations talent, and we are pleased to invite expressions of interest for an exclusive opportunity to attend the Darwin Aboriginal Art Fair (DAAF), Country to Couture, and the National Indigenous Fashion Awards (NIFA). 

Mimi & Jinda (2025 Business Achievement NIFA Winner). Photo by Dylan Buckee.

Presented in partnership with the DAAF Foundation’s Indigenous Fashion Projects, this fully funded initiative is open to First Nations individuals with a passion for fashion, design, art, modelling, photography, hair and makeup, or event production. One applicant will be selected to receive an all-expenses-paid trip to Larrakia Country, Darwin in August 2026*, offering a dynamic development experience through unparalleled behind-the-scenes access and valuable industry connections.

Mikaleigh Moore (Winner of 2025 Emerging First Nations Talent Program), wearing Delvene Cockatoo-Collins. Photo by Dylan Buckee.

 

 

What’s Included?

$1,500 Flights 

$1,500 Accommodation 

$1,000 Food & Incidentals 

$1,000 Spending Money 

Exclusive access to Country Couture Runway Show, National Indigenous Fashion Awards, and the Darwin Aboriginal Arts Fair plus networking, and mentorship with industry professionals.

How to Apply

To be considered, applicants must: 

Be a First Nations person who is interested in the creative industries outlined above, submit an application through the below form by 5.30pm AEST 14th June 2026, and be available to travel to Darwin between the 30th July 2025 - 7th August 2026.

• Provide your Full Name, Email, Phone Number, Postcode 
• In 400 words or less tell us why you would be an ideal candidate to attend the Darwin Aboriginal Art Fair Foundation’s events. Explain how this opportunity would impact your career pathway.   
• Option to include links to documents, portfolios, web platforms and / or social media link showcasing your work.  

A panel of judges appointed by DAAF Foundation’s Indigenous Fashion Projects and Canberra Centre will select the winner based on passion, creativity, and commitment to First Nations culture.

  

This is more than a chance to visit the Darwin Aboriginal Art Fair event - it's a career-defining opportunity to be immersed in the vibrant world of First Nations fashion, art, and culture. 

Are you ready to take your next step? Apply now via the form below.