Sound NSW has announced more than $2.9 million in Contemporary Music Development Grants for 45 recipients across NSW, supporting everything from debut EPs and new albums to First Nations programs and industry development initiatives.
Sound NSW’s latest round of Contemporary Music Development Grants is putting nearly $3 million back into the hands of the people who make the NSW music scene tick. The second round of Sound NSW’s Contemporary Music Development Grants covers a wide cross-section of the state’s music community, from emerging artists recording their first releases to organisations building long-term infrastructure for the sector.
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Among the artists receiving support are ARIA-nominated Western Sydney rapper Vv Pete, who will record and release four new singles; emerging First Nations R&B artist RIAH, who will record and promote her debut EP; and Illawarra-based rock duo Hockey Dad, who will use the funding to record, mix and master their new album.
On the industry development side, Deniliquin-based Yarkuwa will deliver BEATS, a new pathways program connecting aspiring young First Nations creatives with professional artists and producers. The Song Room is partnering with Outloud, Western Sydney-based primary schools and L-FRESH The Lion to run a two-day intensive music composition and production workshop — an industry first. Arts & Cultural Exchange will deliver a contemporary music program specifically for neurodivergent musicians.
The funding breakdown across the four grant categories is worth noting. First Nations Creation and Professional Development received $174,420 across six artists and acts, while First Nations Industry Development received $578,717 across four organisations. Recording, Content and Promotion accounted for $598,646 across 23 artists and acts — with 57% of that budget allocated to artists identifying as female or non-binary. Industry Development received the largest share at $1,573,814 across 12 organisations.
Regionally, 30% of total funding went to recipients in regional NSW and Western Sydney, across 13 and 11 recipients respectively.
Head of Sound NSW Emily Collins noted the broader intent behind the grants: “From regional NSW to Western Sydney to inner-city Sydney, Sound NSW is proud to support a music ecosystem that reflects the energy and talent of our communities.”
This round follows Sound NSW’s Touring and Travel Fund, which has delivered 129 grants totalling more than $1.25 million since July 2025.
For the full list of recipients, visit the Sound NSW website.
