From 2026–27, the Territory Events Program will move from two funding rounds a year to one.

This is a significant shift in the funding cycle, and Tourism and Events NT recognise that the transition will not be without challenges and organisers are reminded that we are here to help support you through the process. 

Key dates

Milestone  Date  

Program Launch & Information Sessions 

This year, we're holding more information sessions in more locations than ever before - giving you more opportunities to meet with our team and ask the questions you have. 

We're also introducing a second virtual session, giving organisers the chance to reconnect with us after they've had time to review the guidelines and start their application. 

1 September 2026 – Virtual Session 1 

3 September 2026 – Katherine 

8 September 2026 – Darwin 

9 September 2026 – Alice Springs 

22 September 2026 – Virtual Session 2 

Applications open 

At any time during the application period, we encourage you to book an appointment with one of our team members to ask specific questions or get direct feedback on your application. 

If you've applied unsuccessfully in a prior round, our team can also revisit that feedback with you. 

 9 September 2026 
Applications close  9 October 2026 
Assessment period  12 – 30 October 2026 
Outcomes advised  Prior to 16 November 2026 

 

Our funding program supports a wide variety of events, including music festivals, major sporting events and cultural events that drive tourism in the Northern Territory.

Events are how the Territory show the world who we are. This program ensures we maximise every opportunity - for visitors, for communities, and for the people who call the Territory home.

  • Event organisers can apply under one of three tiers: 
  • Major Events – Marquee, nationally/internationally significant events
  • Tourism Enablers – Events with proven or emerging capacity to extend visitor length of stay, drive shoulder / off-off peak travel, or open new visitor markets.
  • Community and Lifestyle - Events that strengthen Territory lifestyle, community participation, identity and liveability.
  • NEW Activation Fund – Activation of key precincts connected to major events.

For more information or to speak to a team member, email us at [email protected] or call us on (08) 8999 8344. 

Industry Briefing and Networking Events

This industry briefing is designed to be an informative and collaborative session for event organisers. It’s an opportunity to gain practical insights, ask questions, and share real-world experiences with peers and industry partners. The session will cover:

  • Territory Events Program Overview – what’s new including eligibility criteria, moving to GrantsNT and how to write a compelling submission.
  • The Partnership Program – partnering with TENT through the Territory Events Program is about more than funding. Learn about our Events Organisers Bootcamp offering, delivered by Australian Centre for Regional Events.
  • Industry Partners – a panel discussion with representatives from the Community Benefit Fund, Tourism and Events NT Strategy Team about the Visitor Economy Strategy 2032.
  • Networking and Q&A – an opportunity to connect with other local event organisers and the Event Partnerships team, ask questions, and share experiences.