BIGSOUND 2026 Unveils Record Artist Support for 25th Anniversary
BIGSOUND is marking its 25th anniversary with a major expansion of financial support for artists, organisers announced today at The Brightside in Fortitude Valley. Running from September 1 to 4, the 2026 program introduces a significantly larger support package for every act selected for the BIGSOUND 100.
For the first time, all showcasing artists will receive travel assistance, an additional conference delegate pass, and greater access to conference sessions. Organisers have also launched a new QR code donation system allowing audiences to directly support performers during the festival.
New Funding and Direct Fan Support
Interim CEO of QMusic, Kristy Ellis, confirmed that the new initiatives demonstrate what can be achieved when government, philanthropy, industry partners and the broader music community come together. “We’re proud to be providing more support to showcasing artists than ever before,” Ellis said.
The additional travel funds were made possible by ongoing foundation support from the Harding Foundation, Hutchinsons Builders, the Apostolos Family, and the Shepherd Foundation. Oztix CEO Stuart Field added that the new ‘Stage Drive’ initiative allows fans to put money directly into artists’ hands at the point of performance.
“As a proud Brisbane company and long-time partner of QMusic and BIGSOUND, putting money directly into artists’ hands is exactly the kind of support Australia’s live music scene needs,” Field said.
Conference Themes and Industry Connections
Beyond the live performances, the 2026 conference will revolve around the theme Creatives in Conversation. The program will explore topics including artist wellbeing, international export, fan engagement, artificial intelligence and the growing relationship between music, sport and live entertainment.
Returning favourites such as triple j servicing sessions and AMRAP listening sessions will once again provide practical opportunities for artists to connect directly with industry decision-makers. New industry guests announced today include Dan Woolston, Sean Walker, Ngaiire, Sam Fischer, Emma Bosworth, Ali Tomoana, Briony Kent, Lucy Blomkamp, Tasman Keith, Kobie Dee, Marie Robinson and Lucy Buckeridge.
Goolwal Goolwal and First Nations Voices
The Goolwal Goolwal program also returns with twelve First Nations artists included among the BIGSOUND 100. Conversations will centre on Indigenous leadership, regional connection, storytelling and community.
The expanded initiative continues BIGSOUND’s commitment to amplifying First Nations voices within the Australian music industry. Over the past quarter-century, the event has helped introduce acts including Flume, Courtney Barnett, Tash Sultana and Tones And I while connecting Australian musicians with labels, managers, publishers, promoters and media from around the world.
Showcase Schedule and Ticket Pricing
The full showcase schedule has been released, allowing music fans to begin mapping their way through 100 emerging and established Australian and New Zealand artists performing across multiple venues in Fortitude Valley over three nights.
Organisers have also confirmed the return of the Up x Monster Children showcase, where one act will receive a $20,000 cash prize to support touring and recording.
Delegate passes are now on sale. Full price is $899, with QMusic Subscriber and Reciprocal Members paying $849. Second release pricing from July 1 to 31 is $799 for general admission and $749 for members. Student and concession pricing is available.
Festival passes are also available. The 3-night festival including afterparties is $129 full price, or $100 for early bird pricing until July 31. A 1-night festival pass is $69 full price, or $50 for early bird. Youth (25 and under) and concession pricing is $30.
