MusicNSW is proud to introduce Wamarra Music Lab, a 5-day First Nations-led incubator program designed to support the development of First Nations music businesses.
Wamarra Music Lab has been created by MusicNSW First Nations Development Manager Kaleena Smith to strengthen the First Nations music ecosystem and empower First Nations-led businesses to thrive while maintaining cultural integrity and community-centred practices.
Held in Sydney (Gadigal) over five days, the Lab will provide First Nations music business leaders a culturally safe space for vital skills development, mentorship and networking through workshops, masterclasses and opportunities for shared reflection.
Participants will explore key areas including branding and storytelling, marketing, financial planning, legal protection, innovation, and strategic growth. The full program will be released in early 2026 to selected participants.
“Wamarra Music Lab is an exciting opportunity that is informed by community and grounded in cultural authority,” said MusicNSW First Nations Development Manager Kaleena Smith. “It is so important that we centre the knowledge, experience, and aspirations of First Nations led music businesses, and I hope that this program is an important part of strengthening the foundations of a thriving, empowered music sector for First Nations led music businesses.”
MusicNSW Managing Director Joe Muller sees Wamarra Music Lab as a key step in the organisation’s ongoing commitment to First Nations music industry development.
“I couldn’t be more proud to launch Wamarra Music Lab alongside MusicNSW First Nations Development Manager Kaleena Smith - a program which meets sector needs and opportunities uncovered through an ongoing process of consultation and deep listening. Kaleena’s vision for the lab will enable a pathway for new generations of First Nations leaders to emerge within the music industry and we are so excited to welcome the first cohort in 2026.”
Wamarra Music Lab is supported by Sound NSW and Creative Australia.
'Wamarra Music Lab' artwork by Jessica Johnson, Nungala Creative.
