A new professional development initiative with multiple opportunities to connect, support and invest in the next generation of regional arts producers.
Performing Lines is proud to announce the launch of the NSW Regional Producers Initiative, a new statewide program designed to support producers, self-producing artists and arts workers based across regional New South Wales. Supported by Create NSW, the initiative offers a suite of professional development opportunities that will strengthen regional arts leadership, build networks, and increase access to industry knowledge and resources.
“Investing in the capacity of regional artists and arts workers is incredibly important for the health of Australia’s performing arts.” states Performing Lines Executive Producer/CEO Simon Wellington. “We hope that the NSW Regional Producers Initiative will model new ways of working, and create new partnerships and connections to ensure important stories and voices are represented in local communities and on national stages.”
Producers play a vital role in bringing creative ideas to life, supporting artists and building vibrant communities. Yet many regional practitioners continue to face barriers to professional development, mentorship and industry connections that are often more readily available in metropolitan centres. The NSW Regional Producers Initiative responds directly to these challenges by creating accessible pathways for professional growth and collaboration.
Performing Lines Senior Producer in NSW, Vanessa Wright is pleased the organisation can offer the program. “The NSW Regional Producer Initiative will strengthen connections between regionally based producers across the state, giving them better access to the resources and opportunities they need to grow their practice.”
The initiative has been developed to nurture a strong and connected community of producers working across regional NSW while championing the diversity, expertise and creativity that exists beyond metropolitan centres. Through mentorship, training, bursaries and freely available resources, the initiative aims to support both emerging and established producers at all stages of their careers.
The NSW Regional Producers Initiative includes four key opportunities:
A five-day residency and skills-development program bringing together six participants from across NSW. Combining workshops, presentations, case studies and one-on-one mentorship with industry professionals, the Intensive is designed to provide practical producing skills while fostering meaningful professional connections. Participants will also attend Groundswell, a new symposium for regionally based creatives held in Tathra on Djiringanj Country.
Five bursaries of up to $1,500 each will support regional producers to undertake professional development opportunities aligned with their individual career goals and aspirations.
A tailored mentorship opportunity connecting regional producers with experienced industry professionals through one-on-one sessions focused on addressing real-world producing challenges and building sustainable career pathways.
- The Producer’s Toolkit
An online resource centre to be launched later in 2026 that will provide free access to practical tools, templates, videos and industry resources, helping to break down barriers to knowledge-sharing and professional development within the performing arts sector.
These opportunities are open to producers, self-producing artists, arts administrators, project coordinators and community organisers based in regional NSW. Applications are encouraged from a broad range of practitioners and backgrounds, including First Nations people, people of colour and people with disability.
As one of Australia’s leading performing arts producers, Performing Lines has a long history of supporting artists and arts workers through professional development, industry partnerships and creative producing programs. The NSW Regional Producers Initiative continues this commitment by investing in regional capability, leadership and cultural growth.
Applications for the NSW Regional Producers Initiative open on Wednesday 5 August 2026, with successful applicants to be notified in September. A free online information session will be held at 5.30pm (AEST) on Tuesday 18 August 2026 via Zoom.
For full details, to register for the information session and/or access to application forms, visit the NSW Regional Producers Initiative webpage
