New Music Awards Event Scores Funding Through 'Revive Live' Program

A new “national contemporary music platform” has scored funding through the Albanese Government's Revive Live funding program.

Announced on Monday, The Next Up Music Awards - which aims to “strengthen the connection between music education, live performance and industry pathways for the next generation” - will put on a live performance event at Carriageworks in Sydney on January 28th, 2027.

Also confirmed to receive funding is the Sounds Atlas event, a part of the Wollongong City Festival, which will give new artists the opportunity to perform at events throughout Thirroul, Port Kembla and Bulli.

“Going to gigs and experiencing live music should be available to every Australian. It’s important for the industry and for up and comers that that tradition can continue," Ninister for the Arts, Tony Burke, said.

“Revive Live is giving artists a chance to be heard by a whole new audience of music lovers and create a career pathway because of their passion for music." Through Revive, the Government last year established Music Australia within Creative Australia, with new funding of more than $69 million to support and promote the Australian contemporary music industry to increase discoverability and develop markets and audiences.

Previous recipients of Revive Live funding include the NT's Desert Harmony Festival +($100,000); Victoria's Ability Fest ($100,000); Wollongong's Yours & Owls ($250,000); and Tasmania's Party in the Paddock ($200,000).

Venues like Freo Social in Western Australia and Queensland's The Cave Inn have also previously scored funding to upgrade their infrastructure, and for production and equipment costs.