BIGSOUND is marking its 25th anniversary by expanding its investment in the artists at the centre of Australia’s biggest music industry gathering, with organisers unveiling a 2026 program that places greater emphasis on direct support, industry access and career development.
Running from September 1 to 4 across Brisbane’s Fortitude Valley, this year’s event introduces a significantly expanded support package for every act selected for the BIGSOUND 100. For the first time, all showcasing artists will receive travel assistance, an additional conference delegate pass, greater access to conference sessions and a new QR code donation system allowing audiences to directly support performers during the festival.
The announcement comes as BIGSOUND reaches a milestone that has seen it evolve from an industry showcase into one of the country’s most influential launchpads for emerging artists. Across the past quarter-century, the event has helped introduce acts including Flume, Courtney Barnett, Tash Sultana and Tones And I while connecting Australian musicians with labels, managers, publishers, promoters and media from around the world.
Beyond the live performances, the 2026 conference will revolve around the theme Creatives in Conversation, exploring topics including artist wellbeing, international export, fan engagement, artificial intelligence and the growing relationship between music, sport and live entertainment. Returning favourites such as triple j servicing sessions and AMRAP listening sessions will once again provide practical opportunities for artists to connect directly with industry decision-makers.
The Goolwal Goolwal program also returns with twelve First Nations artists included among the BIGSOUND 100, alongside conversations centred on Indigenous leadership, regional connection, storytelling and community. The expanded initiative continues BIGSOUND’s commitment to amplifying First Nations voices within the Australian music industry.
The full showcase schedule has also been released, allowing music fans to begin mapping their way through 100 emerging and established Australian and New Zealand artists performing across multiple venues in Fortitude Valley over three nights. Organisers have also confirmed the return of the Up x Monster Children showcase, where one act will receive a $20,000 cash prize to support touring and recording.
As BIGSOUND enters its 25th year, the event continues to occupy a unique place in Australia’s music landscape, balancing industry networking with artist development while providing audiences with an early look at the next generation of Australian and New Zealand music.
BIGSOUND 2026 | 1 – 4 September Fortitude Valley Brisbane, QLD
TICKET PRICING
DELEGATE PASS – ON SALE NOW
Full Price: $899 / QMusic Subscriber & Reciprocal Members: $849
SECOND RELEASE PRICING (1 JULY – 31 JULY)
$799 / QMusic Subscriber & Reciprocal Members: $749
Student and concession pricing available, see bigsound.org.au for more information.
FESTIVAL PASS – ON SALE NOW
3-Night Festival including afterparties
Full Price: $129* / Early Bird Pricing (until 31 July): $100*
1-Night Festival
Full Price: $69* / Early Bird Pricing (until 31 July): $50*
Youth (25 and under) and Concession Pricing: $30*
*Price does not include platform fees. Terms and conditions apply.
