The Indigenous Repatriation Program – Museum Grants supports the unconditional return of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander (First Nations) ancestral remains (ancestors) and secret sacred objects (objects) held in the collections of the eight major Australian museums to their Traditional Custodians.

Overview

The Program facilitates the return of ancestors and objects. Participating museums work directly with First Nations communities to identify the provenance of ancestors and objects and return them Country.

Funding and Benefits

• Total Amount Available (AUD): $800,000.00
• Estimated Grant Value (AUD): From $10,000.00 to $100,000.00
• Funding Commencement: Projects must commence from 1 July 2026.

Eligibility

The following museums are eligible for funding:

• The Australian Museum
• Museums Victoria
• Queensland Museum
• Western Australian Museum
• South Australian Museum
• Tasmanian Museum and Art Gallery
• Museum and Art Gallery of the Northern Territory
• National Museum of Australia

Application Process

The Office for the Arts will provide eligible applicants with information to access the online application.

Deadline and Timeline

• Close Date & Time: 29-May-2026 11:00 pm (ACT Local Time)
• GO ID: GO8407
• Selection Process: Closed Non-Competitive

Contact Information

For further details, applicants may contact the Indigenous Repatriation Section, Office for the Arts.

• Email Address: repatriation@arts.gov.au
• Web Address: