More Western Sydney musicians will have the opportunity to build their careers, create new music and connect with industry professionals through a major new fellowship program.
The Generations – Western Sydney Music Fellowship is committing to nurturing emerging musical talent across the region with the launch of applications for two lucrative six-month residencies. Each fellowship includes $25,000 in financial support, professional mentorship and dedicated studio space in Blacktown.
Delivered through a partnership between Powerhouse, Sound NSW and Blacktown Arts, this program aims to empower unsigned musicians to expand their reach while fostering industry growth and strengthening Western Sydney’s creative voice.
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Generations – Western Sydney Music Fellowship 2025
- Two early career musicians or bands will receive $25,000 each in financial support
- Six months of professional mentorship with established industry professionals
- Access to dedicated studio space in Blacktown for writing, rehearsals and recordings
- Performance opportunities through partner organisations
- Applications close Wednesday, 15 October 2025
“Western Sydney is home to some of the most dynamic and original voices, including FRIDAY* and gemma ylana,” says Acting Head of Sound NSW, Jana Gibson.
“This program is about backing that talent and giving emerging artists the support, mentorship and industry connections they need to take the next step in their career. Sound NSW is excited to work with Powerhouse and Blacktown Arts again this year to support this program and we can’t wait to hear what the next generation of musicians from Western Sydney has to share.”
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This year’s fellowship program connects participants with musicians, songwriters, producers, agents, record labels and publishing executives while developing entrepreneurial skills essential for career growth. Fellows will engage with established industry professionals, fostering intergenerational knowledge transfer and expanding their networks.
Access to professional studio facilities supports creative development of new music, while performance and program development opportunities with all three partner organisations enhance industry exposure.
Since launching in 2020, the Generations fellowship has supported 12 musicians across NSW, with alumni going on to release new music, perform at festivals and build their profiles within the state’s music industry.
Mayor of Blacktown City Brad Bunting emphasises the local commitment to supporting creativity: “Blacktown City is proud to back the next generation of Western Sydney artists. This fellowship celebrates our community’s creativity and opens doors for local musicians to take their talent further.”
“We’re proud to partner in a program that strengthens Western Sydney’s creative voice and ensures our community continues to shine on the national stage.”
Powerhouse Chief Executive Lisa Havilah says the collaboration reflects the organisation’s broader mission: “Powerhouse is proud to collaborate with Sound NSW and Blacktown Arts to present the next iteration of the Generations Western Sydney Music Fellowship. This program not only nurtures Western Sydney artists but also strengthens NSW’s vibrant and diverse music culture.”
Applications for the fellowship close on Wednesday, 15 October 2025.
For more information, head here.
