Contemporary Music Development Grants – First Nations Creative and Professional Development

This grant is for First Nations NSW artists and acts with an existing body of work in contemporary music to support creation, recording and promotion of new and original contemporary music, professional development and the purchase of equipment.

This funding aims to:   

• prioritise and protect First Nations music
• strengthen the recorded music ecosystem for First Nations artists
• future proof the NSW music industry for First Nations artists through upskilling and collaboration 
• build the profile of First Nations NSW music. 

 This program is open to First Nations artists and acts, as well as music businesses applying on behalf of an artist or act.

 An artist who:

• identifies as Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander
• is 18 years or older
• currently lives in NSW (minimum 12 months)
• performs new and original contemporary music
• has at least one publicly available release.

An act:

• with majority Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander members
• with members who are all 18 years or older
• with at least 50% of members currently living in NSW (minimum 12 months)
• that performs new and original contemporary music
• that has at least one publicly available release.

 Applicants will need: 

• an active ABN (that’s your Australian Business Number)  
• a bank account with the same name as your ABN  
• or a funds administrator to help you out. 

For the purpose of this program contemporary music refers to artists and acts performing new and original music. 

• Artforms not supported through this program are:
  • experimental music and sound art
  • contemporary classical, opera, choral and ensembles
  • music theatre
• These applicants should refer to Create NSW’s Arts and Cultural Funding Program (ACFP) guidelines.