Our Advocacy
Our advocacy centres First Nations artists - the world's oldest continuous music-makers - and extends to every artist and music community across regional and remote New South Wales. The following priorities reflect our belief that a flourishing music sector must be built from the ground up, and from the edges in.
Resources
Whatever stage of your musical journey you're at, you'll find practical tools and guides here - from recording and releasing your first track to growing a sustainable music career. Built by people who've been through it, and shaped by the artists and industry workers who know what's actually needed. Dig in.
Resource Library
Welcome to our Resource Library - a collection of practical advice, tools and guides for artists navigating the music industry. From recording and releasing to touring, marketing, funding and running your music business - find what you need and get into it. Use the filters and search below to get started.
What is Music NSW?
We're the peak body for contemporary music in New South Wales - here for the artists, communities and music businesses that make this state's culture what it is. We exist to build a stronger, more equitable and sustainable music ecosystem across the state, with the wellbeing of artists at the centre of all that we do. As a non-government, not-for-profit organisation, we have proudly delivered impact for NSW artists and music businesses since 1998.
How do I become a member?
Whether you’re an artist, music industry worker or just a fan of NSW music, you are welcome here. Join to receive tailored advice and support, access to our programs, resources and initiatives and to add your voice to our advocacy. Membership is free - join our community HERE.
What programs do you offer?
Check out our What We Do page for info on all of our programs across the state.
Where does MusicNSW operate?
We support artists and music industry workers wherever they live in NSW. We have team members based across the state - have a look to find your local coordinator and get in touch.
How can I access resources?
Check out our Resource Library to dive into our extensive suite of resources and get in contact so we can help you connect the dots.
Are you part of the NSW Government?
MusicNSW is an independent, not-for-profit organisation - not a government body. We’re led by a Managing Director, run by a team and governed by a Board. We do receive government funding and work collaboratively with government - advocating on behalf of artists and working towards a healthier, more sustainable sector. But we’re independent. It’s confusing, we know!
Do you give arts funding?
No, we’re the state’s peak music body, not a funding organisation. We believe governments should invest in music and the arts, and we advocate strongly for that. But we don’t distribute arts funding ourselves. For a list of current funding and other opportunities see our Funding & Opportunities Calendar.
What is a peak body?
A peak body is a non-government organisation that represents the best interests of a specific community or sector. We advocate, lobby government, provide resources and guidance, and are generally recognised as the primary voice for contemporary music in NSW - representing artists and music businesses, with a focus on the grassroots.
Some Useful Definitions
We use the term contemporary music to refer to any new and original music written, produced, performed or recorded by an artist, regardless of genre or commercial intention.
We use the term artist to refer to those who engage in the process of creating, performing, or recording music. We acknowledge that artists themselves use diverse terminology (music-making, songwriting, playing, producing, performing, etc.) to describe their practice, and we honour these self-definitions.
We use the term industry to describe the network of businesses, professionals, and organisations involved in the commercial advancement of music across NSW, nationally, and internationally.
We use the term sector to acknowledge the overlap of many interconnected music industries. Distinct industries include recording, publishing, live performance and music education.
Ecosystem thinking enables us to recognise the interdependence of diverse participants in the music community. Like in the natural world, a sustainable music ecosystem thrives on diversity, collaboration, and mutual support.
We use the term scene to describe music and music-making as a practice embedded in specific communities of creators, performers, organisers, participants, and audiences, often centred around geographic locations, genres, or cultural identities.
We use the term grassroots to describe artists and industry workers who operate independently, emerging organically from local communities rather than from established commercial interests. They build audiences through direct participation in music scenes and prioritise authenticity, creative freedom, and community connection - from the ground up.
Own Your Setup
Looking to elevate your recording setup? Want to learn the fundamentals of capturing high-quality sound in the comfort of your own home? This intimate, hands-on masterclass will take you through everything you need to maximise your results when DIY recording.
Pressure Makes Diamonds
Ever walked into a professional studio and wondered what everyone's actually doing or how to make the most of the time you're paying for? This workshop pulls back the curtain, opening up the opportunity to understand the studio space more and level up your home recording setup.
First Nations
We believe in a strong, culturally safe, visible and self-determined First Nations music sector - one with more First Nations artists on stages, more First Nations owned and operated music businesses and more First Nations people in leadership roles.
Jannah Beth
Jannah Beth is an artist and songwriter whose music blends cinematic electronic production with intimate, diary-like storytelling. Jannah is also the Founder & Director of Offbeat Collective, which formed in 2021 and is dedicated to creating a sustainable music culture that prioritises artists. Jannah also created ONE OFF TRAKS and the Up Next program, which both support female, trans and non-binary artists. This year, Jannah releases Orbits and Echoes, marking a return to writing and the beginning of a year of milestone performances.
Jem Siow (SPEED)
Jem Siow is the vocalist for Sydney hardcore band SPEED. Forming in 2019, SPEED quickly rose to become a global mainstay in hardcore and heavy music, backed by a relentless touring schedule that saw them perform with pioneers like Gorilla Biscuits and Madball, as well as contemporary powerhouses like Turnstile and Knocked Loose. The band's debut album, 'ONLY ONE MODE' debuted at #1 on the ARIA Australian album charts, later winning the ARIA Award for 'Best Hard Rock/Heavy Metal Release' in 2024. SPEED won the inaugural NSW Music Prize in 2025, using the prize money to host a series of free All Ages hardcore shows in their hometown.
Zeppelin Hamilton
Zeppelin Hamilton is a Wiradjuri artist, actor, model and teacher based on Gadigal Country, Sydney. Working across a range of disciplines, his music project Velvet Trip blends psych-rock, indie-pop and soulful groove with dreamlike production and deeply personal storytelling. In 2025, he broke through with major festival appearances, national support slots and a sold-out Sydney Opera House show, alongside the release of the Glimmers EP. His 2026 album Glimmers Continued debuted at #5 on the ARIA Australian Album Chart and was named triple j’s Feature Album. Across music, screen and community, Zeppelin’s work continues to expand, grounded in culture, creativity and a distinctly First Nations perspective.
Alex The Astronaut
Alex The Astronaut is the project of Australian singer-songwriter Alexandra Lynn, whose writing blends sharp honesty, humour and emotional depth. Following their ARIA-nominated 2022 album ‘How To Grow a Sunflower Underwater’, Alex released the 2024 EP ‘Rage and All Its Friends’, a more collaborative chapter that brought in Paul Kelly, Lisa Mitchell and Benjamin Francis Leftwich, and was also shaped by a WorldPride songwriting camp led by Troye Sivan.
Zoe Catterall (The Buoys)
Zoe Catterall is an Eora-based songwriter/musician, best known as the frontwoman of all-woman rock band The Buoys. Recognised for her relatable lyricism and commanding stage presence, Zoe is deeply committed to fostering community and creating inclusive, accessible spaces in the music scene; values shaped by her experience as an autistic woman who, as a young girl, longed to see greater diversity on stage. Alongside music, Zoe brings a rich scientific background spanning pathology, organ donation, IVF, and even qualitative beer analysis. Having spent her formative years in the bush, Zoe is passionate about weaving climate action into her personal and touring life.
Beau Neilson
Beau Neilson is the owner and creative director of The Vanguard, Newtown, and was previously Creative Director of philanthropically funded performance space Phoenix Central Park. A seasoned arts and culture professional with expertise across venue management, artist support and audience development, she serves as board member of MusicNSW and the Live Music Venues Alliance, Trustee of the Powerhouse Museum, member of the 24-Hour Economy Advisory Council and the Creative Communities Council, and Gifting Committee Member of the Neilson Foundation.
Kristy Wilson
Kristy is a Senior Client Manager at In The Picture Financial Services Pty Ltd providing tax compliance and advice for clients from film, tv, arts, fashion and music industries. Kristy has extensive music industry experience including as National Event Administrator for the Big Day Out, and a project manager at MusicNSW. A NSW music devotee, Kristy plays keyboards with Sydney indie rock legends Knievel and releases solo original music as Morning Papers Music.
Mardi Caught
Mardi is a music industry leader with nearly 30 years’ global and domestic experience. She has held senior executive roles at Warner, EMI and Sony in Australia and the UK, and served as VP of Talent and Music at MTV UK. In 2018, she founded The Annex, which has since lead campaigns for artists including Lime Cordiale, Bluey, Genesis Owusu, Fisher, Underscores, Jessica Mauboy, Alice Ivy, Keli Holiday and Hiatus Kaiyote.
Michael Hutchings
Michael is the Head of First Nations Programming at the Sydney Opera House, with deep expertise in First Nations culture and arts. He has held key roles including First Nations Program Manager at Creative Australia, First Nations members representative at APRA AMCOS, as well as developing MusicNSW’s Whichway Program. Michael has produced the First Nations Arts and Culture Awards for Creative Australia, curated roundtables, and delivered mentoring and artist residency programs, and produced First Nations events such as Yabun.
Adele Luamanuvae
Adele connects artists and local music scenes to our programs, opportunities, playlists and stories. A passionate music journalist who works to platform those not often shown, she has contributed to VICE Australia, The Music and Acclaim Magazine, and hosted The Snacc Pacc on FBi Radio, spotlighting emerging talent from Western Sydney and beyond. Adele is based on Gadigal country.
Niño Haggith
Working across the Northern Rivers and North West, Niño strengthens contemporary music communities, drawing on deep industry experience. A musician, artist and arts worker, he previously served as MusicNSW’s Regional Music Officer (2021-22) and has worked with Mullum Music Festival, Bello Winter Music Festival, Bluesfest Byron Bay and Falls Festival. A presenter and promoter for Red Square Music and performer with Dustyesky choice and Invisible Friend, Niño has toured nationally and internationally. He is based on Bundjalung country.
Jane Slingo
Jane is the Director of VibeLab Asia Pacific and Director of EMC. A proactive changemaker committed to the transformation of music and nightlife, she has contributed to significant policy outcomes including the repeal of Sydney’s lockout laws and record levels of government investment into NSW contemporary music. Jane is also an artist manager, working with Sampology and his Middle Name Records imprint.
Sam Rees
Working across the Far South and Southern Tablelands, Sam strengthens networks and opportunities for musicians in his region. A lifelong musician who grew up in Coolagolite, he has long been active in his local music scene, providing mentorship and building relationships with venues and industry professionals. Through studies in Entertainment Business Management, multiple national tours, and founding mental health organisation Song For Bob, Sam has developed a deep commitment to sustainable regional music careers. He is based on Yuin-Djiringanj country.
Sophie Jones
Working across the Central West, Outback and West Darling regions, Sophie supports artists and communities to grow skills, confidence and connection. A musician, mentor and music teacher, she grew up in Tamworth before moving to Bathurst to study Communications (Theatre/Media). She has contributed to regional music through touring with her band Smith & Jones, running choirs and workshops, and managing events including The End Festival the Local Emerging Artists Program (at Inland Sea of Sound Festival). She is based on Wiradjuri country.
Professor Julian Knowles
Julian is a musician, producer and senior academic with extensive experience in the Australian and UK independent music scenes. His band, Even As We Speak, achieved UK chart success and recorded for John Peel on BBC Radio 1. As a producer/engineer, Julian has worked with artists including ARIA Hall of Fame inductees Ed Kuepper and Chris Bailey. He has broad governance experience in the not-for-profit arts sector, including as Chair of QMusic and member of the Music Board of the Australia Council for the Arts (now Creative Australia). Julian is currently Professor of Music and Executive Dean of the Faculty of Arts and Design at the University of Canberra.
Fernando Benavides
Working at the heart of Western Sydney’s music community, Fernando supports artists and industry to build skills, networks and opportunities. Born and raised locally to immigrant Chilean parents, he is an artist, musician and co-founder of community collective Beat Kitchen Records. For five years, BKR has activated spaces and nurtured connection through music and art, collaborating with councils, venues and brands. Fernando is based on Dharug country.
Kayne Mills
Working across the South West, Riverina and Murray regions, Kayne supports the development of strong, sustainable music communities. A self-taught multi-instrumentalist and vocalist, he has been heavily involved in the development of the Riverina’s original music scene for the past decade. Passionate about live performance and community connection, Kayne is committed to seeing artists in his region thrive. He is based on Wiradjuri country.
Cody Munro Moore
Working across the Illawarra, Cody strengthens skills, networks and collaboration in the local music community. A performer, curator, recording engineer and business owner, he brings more than 15 years’ industry experience spanning tours, festivals, artist collectives and community-led initiatives. He is the Festival Director of the Illawarra Folk Festival, co-curator for Culture Mix Festival and co-owner of Stranded Recording Studios. Cody is based on Dharawal country.
Thalia Skopellos
Thalia leads the delivery of Wamarra Music Lab and other MusicNSW events for First Nations artists and industry. She is also an electronic music producer (Ellatronix, Lazi Daizi), composer for screen (including for 2026 ABC series Goolagong), an APRA NATSIMO Screen Composer Intensive alum, and the founder of StoryBeats, a publishing platform for composers.
Joab Eastley
Working across the Newcastle region, Joab supports the growth of a vibrant and connected local music scene. Over the past decade, he has performed nationally as one half of dance-rock outfit RAAVE TAPES, while championing local talent through initiatives like No-Fi Collective. Through hometown shows, club nights and mini-festivals, he has created pathways connecting emerging artists with touring acts. Joab is based on Awabakal and Worimi country.
Kaleena Smith
Kaleena leads First Nations music development, providing direct support and programs for First Nations artists and industry to strengthen careers, create pathways and grow a sustainable music ecosystem. Kaleena has been in the music industry for 20+ years as a vocalist, songwriter and performer with celebrated duo Stiff Gins. She is Wiradjuri/Yorta Yorta, hails from Naarm on Wurundjeri Country, and has lived most of her life on Gadigal land.
Helen Henry
Helen leads strategic communications to amplify our programs, industry development and advocacy. She has 15+ years experience working in communications to support participation, inclusion and connection (Community Broadcasting Association of Australia, Multicultural NSW, Black Dog Institute, Universal Music Australia), as well as being a recording & touring musician (Lady Lyon, PPGP, Greyhound, Jay Squire) and part of artist-led label Evening Records. Helen is based on Gadigal country.
Corey "Nooky" Webster
Nooky helps foster connections and develop programming for First Nations artists and industry shaped by community voices and aspirations. Nooky is also an artist and member of the trailblazing, ARIA Award-winning 3%, as well as being a radio host and the founder of social enterprise We Are Warriors.
Caitlin McGregor
Caitlin (CP) oversees the development and delivery of initiatives to support artists and industry workers to develop skills, knowledge, inspiration and networks. She has 10+ years experience in the industry as an artist/producer (HANDSOME), event curator (Pleasures Playhouse), record label project manager (Elefant Traks), music director, radio host and touring musician, working with artists like MAY-A, Ayesha Madon, total tommy, EGOISM and more. CP is based on Gadigal country.
Joe Muller
Joe joined MusicNSW in 2023. Additionally, he is Acting Chair of Green Music Australia and sits on the NSW Government’s Sound NSW Advisory Board and 24-Hour Economy Advisory Council. His curatorial experience includes Vivid Sydney, Queensland Music Festival, CHANGES Festival (Melbourne), Taste of Tasmania Festival, Newtown Festival, and Sydney venues The Basement and The Lansdowne. Previously, Joe was Co-Director of artist management company and independent label Wondercore Island, and General Manager of artist management and venue booking company NFE. He is also an artist with over 25 years of practice, living on Dharug and working on Gadigal country.
Laura Murdoch
Laura keeps things running smoothly behind the scenes and supports our team to do their best work. She thrives on coordinating processes and resources to help MusicNSW support artists and music communities across NSW. As well as being a recording and touring artist herself, Laura has held roles at MTV Australia, Carriageworks and more. Laura is based on Gadigal country.
