Sound NSW Opens 2026/27 Funding Programs for Artists, Venues and Industry

Sound NSW has opened applications for the first of its 2026/27 funding programs, with Venue Upgrade Grants and Contemporary Music Development Grands now available.

The state music body is encouraging artists, managers, venue operators, festival and event organisers, and music organisations to explore the funding opportunities, which are aimed at supporting new projects, audience growth and the broader NSW music sector.

Across the 2026/27 financial year, Sound NSW will offer five funding programs: Contemporary Music Development Grants, Venue Upgrade Grants, Local Audience Development Grants, the Generations Western Sydney Music Fellowship, and the Touring and Travel Fund.

“Our next round of funding will continue to support the growth and global reach of the NSW music industry by investing in artists, industry professionals, music organisations and venues across the state,” Head of Sound NSW Emily Collins said. 

“The Contemporary Music Development Grants will support the creation, recording and promotion of new music, along with industry development initiatives that build skills, careers and opportunities across the sector. Dedicated First Nations funding streams will also provide targeted support for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander artists, music professionals and organisations.”

The Venue Upgrade Grants will help venues invest in infrastructure and equipment that strengthen live music experiences for artists, audiences and communities, Collins added.

“Together with a range of other Sound NSW programs rolling out in the months ahead, this funding will create new opportunities for the people and organisations that power our music industry and help ensure NSW remains a great place to create, perform and experience music.”

The Contemporary Music Development Grants will provide funding for artists and acts to create and promote new music, while also supporting music organisations delivering sector development projects.

Sound NSW's Venue Upgrade Grants are targeted at contemporary live music venues looking to improve infrastructure, technology and audience experiences. 

The program is split into two funding streams. Advice and Planning grants of up to $20,000 are available for expert advice, planning support, legal services and venue assessment reports, while Infrastructure and Equipment grants of up to $300,000 can be used for equipment purchases, infrastructure upgrades, audiovisual systems and lighting technology.

The grants are designed to create more fit-for-purpose live music venues and strengthen the capacity of the state's live music sector.

Other programs set to roll out during the financial year include the Touring and Travel Fund, which supports touring and travel by NSW contemporary music artists and industry professionals, and the Local Audience Development Grant, aimed at helping music businesses and industry professionals connect local music communities with local audiences.

The Generations Western Sydney Music Fellowship, delivered in partnership with Sound NSW, Powerhouse Museum and Blacktown Arts, will support the development of early-career contemporary musicians and bands from Western Sydney within the NSW music industry.

More information on Sound NSW's 2026/27 funding programs is available through the NSW Government website.