Expressions of Interest for the Australian Women in Music New South Wales and Queensland Regional & Remote Women's Music Program have officially opened, with an invitation to First Nations female and gender-diverse artists and music practitioners at all stages of their career, across all areas of industry and all genres of music.
The Program is designed to champion gender equality and diverse representation, elevating regional and remote artists and music practitioners by providing unique, safe networking opportunities, industry insights and a platform for celebration.
Comprising eight delegates from Queensland and eight from New South Wales - the Program brings together 16 artists and music practitioners for a unique immersive, professional development experience at AWMA in Magandjin / Brisbane across May 26-27 next year.
Queensland and New South Wales delegations are supported through separate State funding arrangements with their own State-based eligibility and selection processes. Once selected, all delegates will participate collectively in the broader two-day AWMA Program.
Delegates are fully supported to participate in the AWMA Conference Program and attend the First Nations Women's Music Showcase, Black Carpet, Awards Ceremony, Concert and After Party with associated networking activities providing direct access to artists, industry leaders, peers and broader industry networks.
Queensland Minister for Women and Women's Economic Security Fiona Simpson said it was important to ensure women from regional Queensland had the opportunity to participate in the Regional & Remote Women's Music Program.
"Women in rural and remote communities, particularly our Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders and women from culturally diverse backgrounds, have unique and powerful perspectives and stories they can bring to life through music," she said.
"Providing valuable industry experience and helping to break down the barriers for women, particularly in regional and remote Queensland, to access opportunity is important. Regardless of their background or where in the state they live, these women have talents the world needs to see and hear."
Applications will be assessed within their respective State delegation by the Program Selection Committee, with delegates selected on their professional needs, career development, engagement within the music industry and impact within their own communities.
Targeted consultation and outreach with regional venues, arts workers, First Nations networks, industry organisations and local contacts in each State will assist in reaching the intended demographic of applicants.
"For too long, women in regional and remote communities, especially those facing compounding disadvantages, have struggled to find a visible pathway into the music industry," said Vicki Gordon, Founding executive producer and program director, AWMA.
"The AWMA Regional & Remote Program intentionally reaches out to marginalised and disadvantaged women to give them a real, tangible foothold in the industry in a safe and supportive space.
"Our sincere thanks go to Sound NSW and the Queensland Government for standing with us to ensure no one is left behind simply because of their postcode."
Travel and accommodation and daily per diems will be provided to each of the 16 delegates in accordance with the approved arrangements for their respective State delegation.
Applications for the Regional & Remote Delegates Music Program EOI are open from October 13th, 2026.
For more fashion, arts, culture and lifestyle news subscribe for free to the Style Up newsletter.
