Women in the Whitsundays with a passion for music are being encouraged to apply for a unique opportunity as part of the 2025 Australian Women in Music (AWM) Queensland Regional & Remote Women’s Music Program.
Expressions of interest are now open for the sixth annual program, which invites First Nations women, female, and gender-diverse music practitioners living in regional and remote Queensland to apply for a fully funded, two-day professional development experience at the prestigious Australian Women in Music Awards (AWMA) in Brisbane this October.
Supported by the Queensland Government, the program offers eight selected participants the chance to attend the AWMA Conference, First Nations Women’s Music Showcase, award ceremony, concert and after-party—with all expenses covered, including travel, accommodation and per-diems.
Queensland Minister for Women Fiona Simpson said it's an incredible opportunity for women to make their voices heard. "Women in rural, regional and remote communities face unique challenges in the music industry–but they also bring powerful voices, stories and talent which deserve to be heard."
The program is open to women across all areas of the music industry—from performers and producers to photographers, technicians, and behind-the-scenes professionals—and particularly encourages First Nations and multicultural artists at any career stage to apply.
The full two-day AWMA program will include forums, networking sessions, and key industry events. Each year, the eight delegates are selected based on merit by a four-member panel, with consideration given to their professional work, goals, and contributions to inclusive music spaces in their communities.
AWMA Program Director Vicki Gordon said the initiative continues to open doors for artists who are often excluded from high-profile industry events. “This program shows our commitment to making the industry more accessible,” she said.
Since its inception in 2018, AWMA has received nearly 2,000 nominations across all areas of the music industry, recognising the contributions of culturally diverse artists, technicians, journalists, and leaders from around the country.
Applicants must be over 18, Australian citizens, and able to submit a short biography, a link to their work, and an explanation of how the opportunity would support their career.
Applications are open now via the AWMA website and close Monday, 4 August 2025.
Women in the Burdekin with a passion for music are being encouraged to apply for the 2025 Australian Women in Music (AWM) Queensland Regional & Remote Women’s Music Program. Photo supplied.