CEO and Director of Adelaide Fringe, Heather Croall AM, said, "Adelaide Fringe is more than an arts festival—it’s a space for connection, empathy, and understanding. The Mental Health Commissioner’s support amplifies these values by empowering performers to bring mental health into focus through creativity."

‘Staging Change’, introduced in 2024, aligns with Adelaide Fringe’s open-access ethos. It provides grants of up to $3,000 for artists to safely present works that challenge prejudice, foster empathy, and deepen understanding of mental health. Performances supported by these grants have sparked vibrant discussions and inspired audiences to approach mental health with compassion and openness. Grant recipients will also be hosting pre- and post-show conversations with health professionals and artists with lived experience to deepen the impact of these performances. As part of the 2025 Fringe Fund, the Mental Health Commissioner’s Staging Change grants have been allocated to support a range of projects from theatre and music to visual arts and immersive installations. Staging Change grants reflect the diverse and innovative spirit of Adelaide Fringe, enabling 15 shows to present works that inspire broad communities.

The Mental Health Commissioner will also be supporting ‘Staging Change on Tour’, a regional touring award delivered in collaboration with Country Arts SA for a Fringe artist to take their show that addresses mental health themes, on the road post-Fringe. The award will be announced on Sunday 23 March at the 2025 Adelaide Fringe Awards Ceremony.

The Mental Health Commissioner for South Australia, Taimi Allan, highlighted the importance of this initiative, "Art has a unique power to heal and connect. By supporting artists through the Adelaide Fringe, we aim to create opportunities for audiences to engage in meaningful conversations about mental health, reducing prejudice and building understanding. Edu-tainment is using entertainment to educate and our research shows that edu-tainment has an enduring impact on positive behaviour change across diverse audiences."

This funding represents an exciting step forward in Adelaide Fringe’s commitment to accessibility and positive social impact. With the 2025 festival fast approaching, the program promises to deliver a wealth of performances that uplift, inspire, and challenge.

Andrea Michaels MP, Minister for Arts, said, “Adelaide Fringe continues to demonstrate the transformative power of the arts in bringing communities together and addressing important social issues. This initiative highlights the festival’s role as a platform for creativity and connection, fostering greater understanding and compassion around mental health through the incredible talent of its artists."

Nadia Clancy MP, Member for Elder | Premier’s Advocate for Suicide Prevention said, “The Fringe is one of my favourite times of the year. A time where we can laugh, cry, and be challenged. The festival provides a platform for artists to share their stories, and for us as audience members to not just be entertained but feel a connection to artists and their works. I encourage everyone to experience one of the incredible performances supported by the Mental Health Commissioner’s Staging Change Grants!’

Anthony Peluso, Country Arts SA Chief Executive/Executive Director said, “It’s great to work in partnership with Adelaide Fringe and the Mental Health Commissioner to share transformative arts experiences with audiences across regional South Australia. The Award provides an amazing opportunity for the selected artist to connect with new audiences and through their work spark vital conversations about mental health and wellbeing.”