ARIA Introduces New Award Honoring Australia’s Best Music Festivals

## Introduction of the ARIA Best Music Festival Award

The Australian Recording Industry Association (ARIA) has launched its first-ever ARIA Best Music Festival Award, in partnership with Tixel. This initiative aims to honor the significant contributions of local music festivals to Australia’s music landscape.

## Recognizing Local Talent

In collaboration with the Australian Festival Association, this award seeks to spotlight festivals that create pivotal opportunities for Australian artists. It celebrates festival organizers who excel at showcasing homegrown talent, ensuring that musicians receive the recognition they deserve.

## Eligibility and Submission Process

To qualify for this award, festivals must feature an Australian headline act or have a lineup that includes at least 50% Australian artists. Festival promoters are required to self-nominate, with submissions evaluated by the ARIA Voting Academy.

The entry process has begun with a fee of $400 (excluding GST), though discounts are available for not-for-profit festivals. Additionally, festivals must be members of the Australian Festival Association to qualify for consideration. The deadline for submissions is set for 5pm AEST on Monday, August 18th.

## Importance of Live Music Festivals

ARIA CEO Annabelle Herd stressed the crucial role of live music festivals within the local music ecosystem. She stated, “Live music festivals are absolutely essential to Australia’s broader music ecosystem: connecting artists with new audiences, and creating critical opportunities for talent development.”

By launching the ARIA Best Music Festival Award, ARIA aims to acknowledge festivals that prioritize and promote Australian talent, contributing to the rich music culture in the country.

## Support for Australian Artists

Zac Leigh, CEO and Co-founder of Tixel, highlighted the increasing support for local artists. “Over half of Aussie event-goers reported attending a music festival in the past year, and more than 70% still see them as a rite of passage for young Australians,” Leigh noted.

Connecting artists with this love for festival experiences is vital for sustaining the future of the Australian music ecosystem.

## Celebrating Festivals

Olly Arkins, Managing Director of the Australian Festival Association, expressed his enthusiasm about this recognition within the music industry. Arkins remarked, “This award celebrates the role festivals play in launching careers, building culture, and helping Australian music reach new audiences.”

Festivals often serve as the first significant stage for emerging artists, remaining one of the most influential platforms for discovering new talent in the country.

## More Information

For detailed information regarding submission guidelines and additional insights, refer to the official ARIA website.

What are your thoughts on the impact of music festivals in nurturing local talent?