Minister Welcome Messages
Message from the Minister for Education and the Arts, The Hon John-Paul Langbroek, and Minister for Environment and Tourism and the Minister for Science and Innovation, the Honourable Andrew Powell MP.
Welcome to the 2026 Cairns Indigenous Art Fair (CIAF), a remarkable celebration of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander arts, culture, creativity and storytelling that draws visitors from around Australia and across the globe.
As one of Cairns’ premier cultural events, CIAF 2026 will showcase the breadth of talent and artistic practice of more than 450 Aboriginal and Tores Strait Islander artists, exhibitors, performers and presenters. CIAF’s vibrant four-day program includes its largest-ever Artisans Showcase, with more than 130 artists selling their works across 36 artisan stalls. The fashion program will also shine with 24 collections on show, including works by designers from New York Indigenous Fashion Week.
CIAF is a cornerstone of Queensland’s cultural calendar, last year attracting almost 15,000 visitors, generating nearly $700,000 in art sales, and contributing $6.2 million to the region’s economy.
The Crisafulli Government is proud to support CIAF, through Arts Queensland and Tourism and Events Queensland, as a sales platform for Indigenous artists to connect to wider markets, and as an exceptional home-grown arts and cultural experience.
As we look to Brisbane 2032, this Government is committed to ensuring the event continues to support positioning Queensland within the global experience economy and maximising economic outcomes for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander creatives in line with our 10-year Queensland’s Time to Shine strategy.
I encourage you to immerse yourself in this celebration of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander creativity and experience the art, culture, and hospitality of Cairns.
The Hon John-Paul Langbroek
Minister for Education and the Arts
It’s a pleasure to welcome you to the Cairns Indigenous Art Fair (CIAF), an event that truly captures the character and charm of Queensland.
Supported by the Queensland Government through Tourism and Events Queensland’s Destination Events Program, this event showcases the unique connection between our state’s vibrant communities and the diverse regions they call home.
Events like the Cairns Indigenous Art Fair (CIAF) bring people together, celebrate local culture and contribute significantly to the community’s pride and economy.
While you’re here, I encourage you to explore all that the Cairns Region has to offer—whether it’s its scenic beauty, local flavours, or the warm hospitality that makes this part of Queensland so special.
A big congratulations to the organisers and everyone who worked hard to bring this wonderful event to life. Thank you for being part of the thriving Queensland Destination Events Program.
Andrew Powell MP
Minister for Environment and Tourism and the Minister for Science and Innovation