Applications Open for 2025 PDAs

The virtual doors have swung open on APRA AMCOS’s 2025 Professional Development Awards (PDAs).

Songwriters and composers are invited to apply for the PDAs, with 13 individual winners set to bag $10,000 cash.

The funds, according to a statement issued by the rights society, are designed to help creatives with their professional development through attending workshops, music education courses, composer seminars, co-writing sessions and other relevant activities, either locally or internationally.

Previous winners have included Angie McMahon, Baker Boy, Elsy Wameyo, Gotye, Jem Cassar-Daley, Melanie Dyer, Morgan Evans, Ngaiire, Rebecca Bracewell, and Yirrmal.

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Announced Thursday, Aug. 8, the categories are: Country/Americana, Classical & Experimental, Dance/Electronic, Hip Hop/Rap, Jazz and Improvised, Music Theatre/Stage (workshop funding only), Popular Contemporary (two awards -- covers Pop, Rock, Alternative, Blues, Roots, Folk, Metal, Christian and Children's), R&B/Soul, Screen Composition (Film, TV, Games), plus three NATSIMO spots (General - all genres, Youth - under 25, and senior -- +50).

“We’re thrilled to announce that applications for next year’s awards are now open, and encourage music creators from all genres to apply,” says Karen Don, head of membership at APRA AMCOS.

The PDAs, now in their 14th year, “are part of our ongoing commitment to support Australian songwriters and composers through every stage of their career, to help them build a strong foundation and bolster the next generation of Australian music creators.”

Applications for the 2025 awards are open now and close at 5pm (AEST) on Tuesday, September 24th.

Winners will be announced in early 2025. Find out more and apply at apraamcos.com.au.