Mushroom Group Announces New First Nations Pathway Program Artists

Mushroom Group's First Nations Pathway Program has unveiled its 2026 artist cohort.

Now entering its fifth year, the initiative's new roster includes Akala Newman, Djunmili Yunupingu, homebody, KIAH (of The Violet Summers), Miles Nautu, MINTY, MOSS, and RIAH.

APRA and ARIA Award winner Nooky, returns as a mentor for the program's fourth consecutive year. He is joined by Emily Wurramara, APRA's 2026 Emerging Songwriter of the Year, who previously mentored the program in 2022 and 2023.

“Four years in with the Mushroom and Coles First Nations Pathway program, it's been real — seeing mob come through, find their feet, and back themselves,” Nooky said.

“For me, it's about creating space, opening doors, and making sure the next generation knows there's a lane for them. I'm proud to still be part of it.”

Since launching in 2022, the program has worked with 32 emerging First Nations artists, connecting participants with more than 40 industry experts through workshops and seminars. Alumni have gone on to play the AFL's Dreamtime at the 'G, SXSW Austin and BIGSOUND, as well as showcase performances in New York with Sounds Australia and slots at major festivals nationally.

“My father instilled at Mushroom the importance of First Nations talent being heard by the music world and we're proud to have worked with artists like Yothu Yindi, Christine Anu, Archie Roach, Dan Sultan, and many more throughout our fifty-year history,” Mushroom Group CEO Matt Gudinski said.

“That legacy continues to this day with the work we do, including the First Nations Pathway Program which is empowering the next generation of emerging artists.”

The commercial partnership with Coles also gives participants reach beyond the standard industry pipeline — original songs from the program have been played across 800 Coles supermarkets nationwide via Coles Radio, and artists have featured in Coles Magazine, which has a readership of approximately 4.4 million.

The program's songwriting masterclass will be held in Sydney later this year.