Melt Development Program to support LGBTQIA+ artists across Queensland

Melt Festival producer, Brisbane Powerhouse, has today launched the second iteration of the Melt Development Program, which supports LGBTQIA+ artists and producers to present work as part of the city-wide festival, taking place from 22 October to 9 November 2025. 

Supported by the Queensland Government through Arts Queensland, the Melt Development Program will prioritise support for artists from Regional Queensland to travel and present works at the 2025 festival while also supporting Brisbane-based artists. 

Regionally-based Queensland applicants can apply for up to $15,000 to support their presentation within the Festival, which recognises the additional costs associated with freight, logistics, travel and accommodation. South-East Queensland and metropolitan applicants can apply for funding of up to $10,000 dependent on the scale and scope of the project. 

Melt celebrates the unique stories, perspectives and creativity of the LGBTQIA+ community. In 2024, the inaugural festival reached over 20 million people, attracted 196,000 attendees, presented 137 events, and showcased over 280 artists. Sixteen projects from across Queensland were supported through the 2024 Melt Development Program. 

Minister for the Arts John-Paul Langbroek said the Melt Development Program provides Queensland artists and arts workers statewide with the  opportunity to present performances and exhibitions as part of a dynamic new city-wide arts festival. 

“The Queensland Government is proud to invest in the Melt Development Program to support Queensland artists to present their work and grow their profile and audiences at an internationally recognised festival.” 

“This initiative helps amplify diverse voices and stories from across Queensland as we work to share our culture and creativity with the world in the lead-up to the Brisbane 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games.” 

Emmie Paranthoiene, Melt Festival Executive Producer, said “The Melt Development Program is a vital investment in Queer creativity. It empowers artists to take risks, share their stories and connect with audiences in bold new ways.  

“Following the incredible success of last year’s festival, we’re thrilled to extend this initiative and strengthen Queensland’s Queer cultural landscape.” 

Applications for the Melt Development Program are now open and will close on 14 July.