Live Nation Launches 'Next On' Program to Support Local Artists

Live Nation has announced Next On, a new program aimed at supporting up-and-coming artists in Australia and New Zealand.

Next On will provide developing artists across the two countries with "the access, exposure, and support they need to grow their careers and reach new fans," according to a press release.

The program will be hosted at Live Nation's iconic AU/NZ venues: The Triffid and The Outpost at Fortitude Music Hall in Brisbane; Palais Theatre — On the Stage in Melbourne; the King's Room inside Anita's Theatre in Thirroul; Divide and Hindley Street Music Hall in Adelaide; and the Tuning Fork in Auckland.

"Next On unlocks stages rent-free, removing some of the biggest barriers facing emerging artists: venue hire, and costs related to production, marketing, and ticketing," the press release states.

One of the above venues will host a showcase featuring local talent every month. The artists will set their ticket prices, be backed by Live Nation's expansive marketing and industry network, and, most crucially, keep every dollar of their ticket and merchandise revenue.

Kate Ceberano, ARIA Award-winning artist and advocate for developing talent, shares, “My career began in pubs, clubs, and the small rooms where Australian music has always found its heartbeat. Those early stages teach you everything — how to test your material, how to win an audience, and how to build a fan base not through hype, but through real connection.

"Giving young artists the chance to stand on iconic stages early, to find their voice and confidence in the right environment, is invaluable. I’m 100% behind it, and I’m thrilled to see these sorts of initiatives help make this possible. This is how we build a healthy industry - one strong foundation at a time.”

Missy Higgins, ARIA Award-winning artist and advocate for developing talent, adds, "When you’re starting out, what you need most is a chance - to get on stage, connect with fans, and be supported by the industry. ‘Next On’ delivers that."

Next On is set to launch this Ausmusic Month, with the shows kicking off in 2026. Interested artists can apply here.