BIGSOUND, Australia's premier music industry event, is turning 25, and it's doing so with a bang! This year, the festival is pulling out all the stops to support its artists like never before. The 25th anniversary marks a significant milestone, and QMusic is leading the charge with an unprecedented artist support package. This isn't just about financial aid; it's a comprehensive strategy to elevate the entire Australian music scene.
A Supportive Ecosystem
Every act on the BIGSOUND 100 will receive a travel contribution, a game-changer for those traveling from afar. This ensures artists can focus on their performance without the added stress of travel expenses. But that's not all; QMusic is also introducing a QR code payment system, allowing fans to directly support artists during their sets. This direct financial support is a huge deal, putting money directly into the pockets of the creators who bring the music to life.
The celebration doesn't stop there. Each showcasing act will also receive an additional free conference delegate pass, granting them increased session access. This means artists can immerse themselves in industry insights, networking opportunities, and potential collaborations, all while being fully supported by the event organizers.
A Collaborative Effort
The expanded travel funding is a testament to the power of collaboration. Government foundation support and philanthropic contributions from the Harding Foundation, Hutchinson Builders, the Apostolos Family, and the Shepherd Foundation have made this possible. Presenting Partner Oztix has also stepped up, funding the 'Stage Drive' initiative, which allows fans to donate directly to artists via QR code at the point of performance.
Stuart Field, Oztix CEO, emphasizes the importance of this direct support, especially for a Brisbane-based company like Oztix. "Putting money directly into artists' hands is exactly the kind of support Australia's live music scene needs," he said.
A Celebration of Australian Music
The BIGSOUND conference, running from September 1st-4th, will be a celebration of Australian music and its diverse voices. The theme 'Creatives in Conversation' will bring together artists, industry professionals, and music enthusiasts for thought-provoking discussions. King Gizzard & The Lizard Wizard, a staple of BIGSOUND, will return for an 'Artist In Conversation' session, offering fans an intimate insight into their creative process.
The event will also showcase the talent of First Nations artists, with the Goolwal Goolwal First Nations program featuring twelve acts. QMusic First Nations Project Officer Natalie Lingwoodock highlights the excellence of the lineup, featuring Trials, Kobie Dee, and Tasman Keith in the 'Artists in Conversation' series.
A Platform for Opportunity
BIGSOUND 2026 is more than just a festival; it's a platform for opportunity. Partners Up Bank and Monster Children will offer artists the chance to win a $20,000 cash prize, with five finalists performing at the Up x Monster Children Showcase. This not only provides financial support but also a platform for artists to showcase their talent to a wider audience.
As Kristy Ellis, Interim CEO of QMusic, aptly puts it, "For 25 years, BIGSOUND has helped accelerate careers, create opportunities, and shape the future of Australian music. This year’s BIGSOUND is about celebrating that legacy while continuing to invest in what’s next."
In conclusion, BIGSOUND's 25th anniversary is a testament to the power of collaboration and support within the Australian music industry. With an unprecedented support package, the event is set to celebrate the past, present, and future of Australian music, leaving a lasting impact on the industry and its artists.
