Can my project include plans to work with specific communities or places I have not worked before?

Yes: your application should demonstrate an appropriate understanding...

Yes: your application should demonstrate an appropriate understanding of the context within which you intend to work.

We strongly advise that you allow reasonable time within your project in order to cultivate meaningful relationships with pre-existing arts and community groups/organisations/practitioners. You may also wish to consider building some of these relationships before applying, in order to evidence interest in working with you on your project.