Expression of Interest (EOI)

Reconciliation Artwork for Meli

Closes: 31 July 2026 (4pm)

An invitation

Meli warmly invites Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander artists and designers to work with us to create artwork primarily for our Reconciliation Action Plan.

We’re hoping to build a genuine relationship with an artist whose work reflects a deep connection to Country, culture and community.

Together, we’re looking to create something that can be shared across Meli; in our spaces, on uniforms and through our communications as a visible expression of:

  • Connection to Country and community
  • Cultural strength and continuity
  • Truth-telling and shared responsibility
  • Our ongoing journey towards reconciliation

We’re committed to approaching this in a way that is respectful, flexible and guided by cultural advice where needed.

We invite you to share, in writing or video, the following:

  • A bit about you, your mob and your connection to Country
  • Some early ideas (up to three these can be sketches, visuals or just described in words)
  • Why this opportunity feels meaningful to you
  • Examples of your work (this could be a link to your social media pages) if sharing photos, please keep below 10MB
  • Your availability and how you like to work

All styles and mediums are welcome.

In your ideas, we’d love to see reflections of Country, community and culture. You might also connect with Meli’s values of Build Connection, Show Courage, Inspire Action, Celebrate Difference and Be Dynamic.

If you’re selected, we’ll work alongside you to grow and refine the artwork so it can be used across different spaces and formats.

We understand that creative and cultural work doesn’t always fit into rigid structures, so we’re open to working in a way that feels respectful, flexible and supportive.

  • Total budget: $6,000 (inc. GST if applicable)
  • This covers concept development, refinement and final artwork
  • We’ll agree on a payment approach together

The final artwork will be used across Meli platforms within the terms of the licence agreement.

At the same time, we recognise that cultural meaning and knowledge always remain with you and your community. We’re committed to using the work respectfully and acknowledging you as the artist.

A panel will look over all the submissions and will be guided by:

  • Connection to Country
  • Strength and meaning of the work
  • Alignment with values (in your own way)
  • A willingness to work together.

We may invite a small number of artists to have a conversation as part of the review.

  • EOI closes: 31 July 2026
  • Yarns with shortlisted artists: August 2026
  • Artist confirmed: August 2026

Email: inclusion@meli.org.au
Subject: EOI – Reconciliation Artwork – [Your Name]

Or drop it off at:
Meli Head Office
8/33 Mackey Street, North Geelong

If you’d like to talk it through before submitting or if you need support with the submission process, you’re very welcome to reach out:

Teresa Lombardo

teresa.lombardo@meli.org.au

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