BIGSOUND Organisers Reveal Full 2026 Programme

BIGSOUND organisers have revealed the full 2026 programme. 

Taking place this September 1st-4th, BIGSOUND 2026 will once again bring the global music industry to Brisbane's Fortitude Valley.

Leading today's final programme announcement is the news that the one and only Paul Kelly will appear in conversation with ABC journalist Sarah Kanowski "for a discussion that unpacks the importance of the songwriters and songwriting in shaping our music culture."

“As APRA celebrates 100 years of supporting Australian songwriters, composers and music publishers, and BIGSOUND clocks up 25 years of showcasing the best of our music industry, it seemed only fitting that we bring out one of Australia’s most beloved songwriters, Paul Kelly, as part of the celebrations to talk about Australian songwriting and its impact both here and around the world,” shares Karen Don, Head of Membership at APRA AMCOS.

Also taking part in Artist in Conversation events this year are Julia Jacklin, King Gizzard members Stu Mackenzie and Lucas Harwood, and rapper Trials. 

Kelly is joined by more than 100 industry guests, also confirmed today, including ARIA CEO Annabelle Herd, Dark Mofo Music Director Kimberley Galceran, esteemed journalist Lars Brandle, and many more. 

They join previously announced industry guests such as Partisan Records Head of A&R Chris Fraser; Pitchfork Associate Staff Writer Nina Corcoran; Bonnaroo executive Bryan Benson; and Mom+Pop Music co-owner Thaddeus Rudd.

The BIGSOUND 100 artist showcase lineup, meanwhile, was announced in June. 

The showcase lineup for this year "represents a rich, diverse roster of names from around the country and New Zealand," according to a press release.

The BIGSOUND 100 lineup was curated by programmers Casey O'Shaughnessy and Katie Rynne, in consultation with an expert board of artists and industry figures from across Australian music.

DC Maxwell, Deva Mahal, Divers, and more up-and-coming artists will showcase their music next month. 

Check out the full BIGSOUND 2026 programme here.