Sound NSW

We're a dedicated office within the NSW Government committed to the growth, development and promotion of contemporary music in NSW.

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Crowdshot during Pacific Avenue at Lost Paradise

Championing NSW Music Database

Submit your details to help NSW Government agencies find your music for future opportunities.

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Hayden James performing on stage during his North American Tour.

About Sound NSW

We're dedicated to supporting the growth of contemporary music in NSW by nurturing careers, driving innovation, boosting exports and delivering the state’s 10-year music strategy.

Gordi playing the guitar at The Great Escape concert

Funding and support

Learn more about the grants, funding and resources we provide for NSW artists, venues, organisations and music industry professionals.

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Stay informed

Subscribe to our e-newsletter for the latest news about our funding programs, upcoming opportunities and events near you.

MUNASIB performing at Mixmag Lab, Bangladesh.

Our funding recipients

Explore the funding programs and support we've delivered to the NSW contemporary music industry including past recipients and new projects.

Latest opportunities

Ocean Alley performing at The Hordern Pavilion

NSW Contemporary Music Strategy

Understand the NSW Government’s commitment to strengthening the NSW music industry and highlighting the economic and cultural importance of this thriving landscape.

NSW Music Prize 2025

The NSW Music Prize is a new annual prize delivered by Sound NSW.

A woman is standing on a stage in front of an audience performing

Michael's Rule

Incentivising international touring artists to book Australian support acts.

Contemporary Music Festival Viability Fund

Applications now open for the 2025/26 Fund, designed to grow and support the live music ecosystem in NSW through investment in established music festivals.

Emily Collins presenting Sound NSW strategy

Strategic Funding 24/25

Application by invitation. This program is designed for institutions, organisations and music businesses demonstrating industry leadership and significant engagement with contemporary music in NSW.

Office of the 24-Hour Economy Commissioner

Latest Department of Creative Industries, Tourism, Hospitality and Sport updates

Ministerial media release

Vivid Sydney 2026 Unveiled: Bigger, Bolder Festival Expands to Day and Night with Record Drone Shows

The Minns Labor Government is unveiling the biggest Vivid Sydney festival yet. The refreshed 23-day program signals the next step in the festival’s evolution, as Sydney continues to cement its reputation as a global destination for immersive cultural experiences.

Ministerial media release