Sound NSW is opening the books on its 2026/27 funding programs, giving artists, music businesses and venues across NSW another opportunity to secure support for projects and investment in the state’s music sector.
Applications are now open for the Contemporary Music Development Grants and Venue Upgrade Grants, with further programs to roll out across the financial year.
The funding comes as Sound NSW continues to back the state’s live music infrastructure, following previous rounds that have supported venues with everything from soundproofing and accessibility improvements to audio-visual equipment and expert advice.
The latest Venue Upgrade Grants build on that work, with the program aimed at helping venues improve their facilities, equipment and live music capabilities while addressing some of the pressures facing operators, including noise management, ageing infrastructure and rising costs.
Recent funding delivered more than $5 million across venue advice and infrastructure projects, with Newcastle’s King Street Hotel among the recipients.
For artists and music professionals, the Contemporary Music Development Grants are designed to support the creation, recording and promotion of new music, as well as projects that build skills, careers and industry opportunities.
Dedicated First Nations funding will also provide targeted support for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander artists, music professionals and organisations.
Other funding opportunities due to open across 2026/27 include the Local Audience Development Grants, Generations Western Sydney Music Fellowship, and Touring and Travel Fund.
“Our next round of funding will continue to support the growth and global reach of the NSW music industry by investing in artists, industry professionals, music organisations and venues across the state,” said head of Sound NSW, Emily Collins.
Sound NSW is encouraging artists, managers, venue operators, festival and event organisers and music organisations to explore the available programs and consider how funding could help bring their next project to life.
With previous funding rounds helping venues invest in everything from soundproofing to production equipment, the latest programs continue Sound NSW’s push to strengthen live music across NSW and support the venues, artists and communities that keep the sector moving.
“Together with a range of other Sound NSW programs rolling out in the months ahead, this funding will create new opportunities for the people and organisations that power our music industry and help ensure NSW remains a great place to create, perform and experience music,” Collins continued.
Further information can be found here.
