Bigsound.org.au
BIGSOUND is marking its 25th anniversary with a renewed focus on supporting emerging artists, unveiling an expanded package of financial and professional benefits for every act performing at this year’s event.
Organized by QMusic, the Australian music conference and showcase festival has increased artist compensation across the board for the 2026 edition. All 100 acts selected for the BIGSOUND lineup will receive travel assistance, an additional conference delegate pass with expanded access to industry sessions and the opportunity to earn direct fan contributions through a new QR code donation system.
The initiative is designed to provide artists with greater financial support while creating new opportunities to connect with music industry professionals during the event.
QMusic Interim CEO Kristy Ellis stated the enhancements reflect a collaborative effort between government, philanthropic organizations and industry partners to invest in the future of Australian and New Zealand music.
The expanded travel funding has been backed by several organizations, while presenting partner Oztix is introducing the new Stage Drive initiative. The feature will allow concertgoers to scan QR codes during performances and send financial contributions directly to artists in real time.
The technology is intended to make it easier for fans to support musicians at the moment they experience their performances, helping put more money directly into artists’ hands.
Taking place across Brisbane’s Fortitude Valley from September 1-4, BIGSOUND 2026 will center its conference around the theme “Creatives in Conversation.” Panels and discussions will explore topics including artist wellbeing, artificial intelligence, international career development and the intersection of music with sport and live entertainment.
This year’s conference will also emphasize Australian perspectives while welcoming international guests into the conversation. Among the featured sessions, King Gizzard & The Lizard Wizard, who first appeared at BIGSOUND in 2013, will return for a special artist discussion, joined by programming from triple j and AMRAP.
The event’s Goolwal Goolwal First Nations program will also return, highlighting 12 Indigenous-led acts as part of the BIGSOUND 100 lineup. Artists including Trials, Kobie Dee and Tasman Keith are scheduled to participate in artist conversations celebrating First Nations creativity and leadership within Australia’s music industry.
In addition to the showcase performances, partners Up Bank and Monster Children will award a $20,000 cash prize to one emerging artist following a special showcase featuring five finalists.
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