National Live Music Awards Set to Return In October 2023 (EXCLUSIVE)

As the concerts entertainment industry recovers from the crushing effects of the pandemic, the National Live Music Awards (NLMAs) makes its comeback after a two-year absence.

The NLMAs is set to return in October 2023, TMN can exclusively reveal, for its sixth edition.

On the night, more than 60 awards will be handed out, including the “Live Legend” honor, which has previously been presented to Magic Dirt and Deborah Conway.

The recipient of the 2023 “Live Legend” will be announced ahead of the big night.

Gang of Youths

Also, organisers will introduce a new category recognising the work of lighting and stage designers for a specific tour, headlined by a domestic touring artist.

The annual NLMAs was established in 2016 to “celebrate the live sector,” feting “the best vocal talents and musicians alongside the best venues, events and festivals.”

Its most recent event took place in October 2020 as a hybrid digital and physical format.

To coincide with the news of its return, the NLMAs relaunches its website, where industry professionals can cast votes on their peers.

Recipients will be feted for their work across a lengthier eligibility period, tracking from Sept. 1, 2020 to June 30, 2023.

As before, the awards categories reward excellence at both national and state level, and are voted on by the live industry — including fellow musicians, media, venues, bookers — with select “public voted” categories.

Larry Heath

“As the live sector starts to show signs of recovery, we’re thrilled to announce the NLMAs are back,” comments awards’ founding director Larry Heath.

“While we’d hoped to return in 2022, it just wasn’t time to celebrate,” Heath adds.

“Many challenges remain, but with massive international tours and festivals returning, and domestic tours announced daily, we very much have ourselves an industry ready to once again celebrate. Even more so given the difficulties being faced – from increased costs, to unpredictable ticket sales.”

Those challenges were crystalised when Live Performance Australia last week called for a national skills and careers pathway framework for the live arts and entertainment industry to support the post-pandemic rebuild.

“We can’t wait to give the ever resilient sector a well deserved night of celebration,” Heath continues.

Stella Donnelly

The NLMAs voting forms will remain open through June 30, 2023.

Event organisers also launch an open call for judges and sponsors, with more details available on the website at nlmas.com.au/join.

These forms will close at the end of March, and prospective applicants are recommended to reach out. 

All categories go live today (Dec. 13) from 10am AEST at nlmas.com.au/nominate.