First Peoples India-Australia Exchange
First Nations writers are invited to apply for the opportunity to connect with Adivasi writers from India, first in residence at Varuna, then at a four-week residency at Sangam House in Bangalore.
Residency dates: 20 - 27 October, 2025 at Varuna, and April 2026 at Sangam House
Applications open: 7 November 2024
Applications close: 5pm AEST 12 December 2025
Places: Two First Nations writers will be selected, as well as two Adivasi writers from India
Who should apply: Writers working in any genre, who have an interest in cross-cultural collaboration and exchange
Fees: There are no application fees or residency fees for this program. All meals and travel costs are covered, and writers will be paid a per diem while at Sangam House
FAQ: Please read the FAQ before you apply.
This residency is open to First Nations writers at any career stage, working in any genre. The fellowship is designed to foster connections between First Nations and Adivasi writers, with time for collaboration and the sharing of cultures.
The fellowship includes:
One week in residence at Varuna, 20 - 27 October 2025. While you will enjoy some time and space to write, the purpose of this week will be to welcome and connect with the Adivasi writers in a collaborative environment, acting as hosts and engaging in some structured workshop activities.
Four weeks in residence at Sangam House in Bangalore in April 2026. During your first week, the Adivasi writers will also be in residence, reciprocating the role of host and continuing the collaboration commenced the year prior.
All travel costs and visa fees and travel insurance
Per diems of $35 per day for your time at Sangam House (roughly Rs 1925 in Indian Rupees, depending on the exchange rate)
Please note that Sangam House is not wheelchair accessible. Further information about the accommodation is included in the FAQ which we encourage you to read before applying.
SANGAM HOUSE AT THE JAMUN
The Jamun is an elegant and spacious house set among the green lanes of Bangalore. Each bedroom has an en suite bathroom and Wi-Fi access. The common spaces include a living area, dining room, breakfast nook, shaded garden, terrace, and the Sangam House library.
The Jamun has a well-equipped kitchen and laundry facilities. Tea and coffee makers are available 24 hours in the common areas on each floor. All meals (except on Sundays) are provided to residents.
The Jamun draws its name from the fruit trees that surround the property and sits across the street from a leafy park. It is a calm and quiet environment with easy access to the city centre. Shops and restaurants are a five-minute walk away.
HOW TO APPLY
You will need to complete a short application form which will include a writing sample of up to 5,000 words, or up to 10 pages, a statement of intent describing your work, your previous writing experience and how you would use the residency.
Assessors will be looking at your writing experience, clarity of focus and objectives (how you will use your time), your interest in cross-cultural collaboration, and the merit of your writing.
“The opportunity for writers to have their work discovered and hopefully published outside of Australia is incredibly significant and validating. I can think of no better cultural ambassadors than our First Nations writers.”
This program is presented in partnership with the First Nations Australia Writers Network (FNAWN), consultants Dr Roanna Gonsalves and Dr Mridula Chakraborty, with support from the Centre for Australia India Relations.
