NSW artists and music organisations backed in latest round of Contemporary Music Development Grants
From laying down tracks and promoting new music, to launching industry-led programs and resources to build capacity of artists and organisations, the state’s music scene will benefit from an investment of almost $3 million in funding from Sound NSW, through grants designed to help empower artists, music professionals and organisations and grow the local contemporary music sector.
More than $2.9 million in funding has been awarded to 45 recipients in the second year of Sound NSW’s Contemporary Music Development Grants, backing a diverse range of projects that reflect the strength and breadth of the state’s music industry.
The funding will support artists, acts and organisations right across the state to create new music, expand their audiences, collaborate with others and deliver professional development programs, and build long-term capacity.
The grants are supporting a wide range of artists, producers and organisations to create new work, strengthen industry networks and launch new programs, including ARIA-nominated rapper from Western Sydney Vv Pete who will record and release four new singles; emerging First Nations R&B artist RIAH who will record and promote her debut EP; and Illawarra-based rock duo Hockey Dad, who will record, mix and master their highly anticipated new album.
Deniliquin-based Yarkuwa will deliver a new pathways program, BEATS, that will connect aspiring young First Nations creatives with professional artists and producers to support skills development; The Song Room will deliver an industry-first pilot program in a partnership that includes Outloud, Western Sydney-based primary schools, and L-FRESH The Lion, to deliver a two-day intensive music composition and production workshop; and Arts & Cultural Exchange will deliver a contemporary music program for neurodivergent musicians.
The latest round of Contemporary Music Development Grants follows recent investment through Sound NSW’s Touring and Travel Fund, which has delivered 129 grants totalling more than $1.25 million so far since July 2025, providing critical support for artists and industry professionals to present their work here at home, as well as nationally and internationally.
Visit the Sound NSW website for more information on Sound NSW programs, support and funding recipients.
Head of Sound NSW Emily Collins said:
“These grants are not just an investment in individual careers, but part of the Sound NSW’s commitment to creating a thriving and inclusive music industry that will help artists and organisations hit their stride – whether that’s on tour, in the studio, or behind the scenes with a boundary-pushing business idea.
“From regional NSW to Western Sydney to inner-city Sydney, Sound NSW is proud to support a music ecosystem that reflects the energy and talent of our communities. This funding will help local artists build sustainable careers close to home, while amplifying First Nations voices that are essential to our state’s identity and future.
“We’re helping more artists record, promote and tour new music, supporting strategic partnerships, and enabling creative development, ensuring our sector remains vibrant and globally connected.”