NSW Music Prize Returns for 2026

Sound NSW has confirmed the judging panels and Nominations Committees for the second edition of the NSW Music Prize, which returns this year. 

The 2026 ceremony will go ahead on Monday, November 9th at the Museum of Contemporary Art's Foundation Hall in Sydney.

The 2026 prize pool sits at $160,000, spread across three categories that recognise established artists, emerging talent and First Nations excellence. This year's judging and nominations panels include Kobalt Music Publishing's Simon Moor, Ausify's Emily Copeland, MusicNSW's Kaleena Smith and triple j host, Karla Ranby.

Finalists will be announced in October ahead of the November ceremony, which kicks off Ausmusic Month.

“The NSW Music Prize is a celebration of the extraordinary artists and music-makers who are helping shape the sounds and stories of our state,” Head of Sound NSW, Emily Collins, said. 

"We're so grateful to the outstanding group of industry leaders and tastemakers taking on the important task of putting forward our state's very best for recognition.

“Together, the committees and panels bring deep industry knowledge and different perspectives to recognising excellence across NSW's contemporary music sector, and it's no easy task. We can't wait to celebrate the artists and releases that continue to push boundaries, inspire audiences and showcase the strength of NSW music.”

The inaugural NSW Music Prize was won by Sydney hardcore outfit, SPEED. Christopher Kevin Au, co-manager of the group, is also member of this year's judging panel.

“It's a huge privilege to be on the judging panel for the NSW Music Prize,” he said. "As the co-manager of inaugural winners SPEED, I've seen the tremendous impact of the Prize first-hand," Au said.

"Using the Prize money, SPEED kickstarted 'Dynasty of Style' – a series of free, all-ages hardcore shows in the heart of Sydney city. 'Dynasty of Style' is accessible, inclusive, and crucial to SPEED's mission of supporting Australian hardcore culture. I look forward to participating in the NSW Music Prize as it unfolds in its second year, where we can continue to celebrate the incredible musicians from all corners of the state." 

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