2026 National Indigenous Music Award Winners Revealed

The 2026 National Indigenous Music Award winners were announced in Darwin on Saturday night.

Baker Boy was the big winner of the night, taking home Album of the Year with DJANDJAY, while "THICK SKIN" — featuring Thelma Plum, Emma Donovan, Kee'ahn and Jada Weazel — claimed both Song of the Year and Film Clip of the Year. Baker Boy performed the track live, bringing out Donovan as a surprise guest.

Cousin duo Birdz and Fred Leone won Artist of the Year, their first NIMA, off the back of their debut EP, GIRA. Drifting Clouds took Best New Talent, while Northern Peninsula Area won Community Clip of the Year for "All The Way From The NPA" and Bulman School & Community picked up the Indigenous Language Award for "LOK LOK MAH BURARR" (Lizard & Goanna).

“Last night’s celebration brought together some of the most incredible music and musicians this country produces, showcasing the rich connection of family and culture," MusicNT's Mark Smith said.

“From the Red Flag Dancers opening to closing the night honouring our newest Hall of Fame inductees, Saltwater Band, the NIMAs are proud to continue as a platform supporting and spotlighting this country’s most exciting music scene.”

Check out all of the winners below.

Artist of the Year: Birdz and Fred Leone

Best New Talent: Drifting Clouds

Album of the Year: Baker Boy — DJANDJAY

Film Clip of the Year: Baker Boy — "THICK SKIN" feat. Thelma Plum, Emma Donovan, Kee'ahn & Jada Weazel

Song of the Year: Baker Boy — "THICK SKIN" feat. Thelma Plum, Emma Donovan, Kee'ahn & Jada Weazel

Community Clip of the Year: Northern Peninsula Area (NPA) — “All The Way From The NPA”

Indigenous Language Award: Bulman School & Community — "LOK LOK MAH BURARR" (Lizard & Goanna)

Hall of Fame inductions: Marlene Cummins, Saltwater Band