Applications are now open for artwork proposals to be considered under Bundaberg Regional Council’s Public Art Masterplan.
The plan supports artists and community groups to lead the installation of creative art projects in public spaces across the region.
Council’s Arts and Heritage portfolio spokesperson Councillor John Learmonth said the plan acknowledged the valuable contribution public art makes to the life and culture of the community.
“Through the work Council has done in developing the Public Art Masterplan and engaging with the community, we know that residents and visitors want to see more art in our public spaces,” Cr Learmonth said.
“More public art also aligns with Council’s goals under the Safe Spaces, Thriving Places project which aims to breathe life back into the Bundaberg CBD.
“Public art proposals that would support the plans to revitalise and reclaim our CBD spaces would be especially welcome.
“Our laneways, parks and gathering places are crying out for creative people to bring vibrancy and life to them.”
The Public Art Masterplan was adopted by Council in July 2023, with new mosaic artworks approved for Bargara and Innes Park in the first round of proposals.
Cr Learmonth said Council hoped to see a diverse range of proposals in this new round.
“Public art can take many forms, including digital projections, murals, commemorative memorials, community developed art, building elements or freestanding sculptures,” he said.
“It’s a broad umbrella that can support our talented local creatives to engage the community through temporary or ephemeral artworks, in addition to permanent installations.”
He said Council was looking forward to working proactively with the arts community to see projects come to fruition.
“I would encourage anyone considering making a submission to read through the guidelines and discuss their project with Council to ensure their project is eligible.”
About the Public Art Masterplan
The Public Art Masterplan outlines a vision for public art in the Bundaberg Region and establishes five key strategies to guide Council’s public art program.
It applies to public art works installed in a space that is a public asset that is managed by, or is intended to be managed by, Council.
The plan contains guidelines for the arts community when making submissions and outlines the framework under which Council assesses proposals, based on themes supported by the community and criteria such as public safety and resourcing.
Make a submission
Public Art proposals can be submitted through the online application service at bundaberg.smartygrants.com.au/PAP25-26.
Read the Public Art Masterplan before drafting a proposal to ensure it meets the requirements, or contact Council to discuss your project if required.
The application can be saved in draft and returned to later for finalisation before submitting.
The current round of Public Art Proposals is open now and closes 28 February 2026.
