First Nations Creative and Professional Development​ - 2026/27

This funding program supports Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander NSW artists and acts to: 

• create, record and promote new and original contemporary music 
• undertake professional development opportunities 
• purchase equipment essential to your music career. 

Funding up to $30,000 can support: 

• producer and artist collaborator fees 
• studio, recording, mixing and mastering costs 
• pressing and manufacturing 
• digital marketing, publicity services and content creation 
• administration costs 
• fees to attend or participate in workshops, camps, mentorships, residencies and other career development opportunities 
• the purchase of equipment essential to your music career, including instruments, hardware and software (up to $5,000). 

Key dates:

• Applications Open: 20 August 2026
• Applications Close: 21 September 2026 at 2pm
• Activity Dates: The project cannot start before 7 December 2026 and must be completed by 31 March 2028. 

Find the answers to frequently asked questions here. 

Sound NSW staff are here to help you and can be contacted between 9am and 5pm Monday to Friday (excluding public holidays) via:  

• Telephone: Anna Healey, Music Investments and Partnerships (02) 9240 8508
• Email: info@sound.nsw.gov.au
• Schedule an online meeting to speak to Sound NSW staff using the link to Microsoft Bookings

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