Sunshine Coast Music Awards Waive Nomination Fees to Support Artists Amid Industry Pressures
The Sunshine Coast Music Industry Collective (SCMIC) has announced that all nomination fees for the 2026 Sunshine Coast Music Awards will be waived, reducing a financial barrier for artists and music industry professionals at a time when the sector is facing increasing economic pressure.
The decision reflects SCMIC’s commitment to ensuring the awards remain accessible and inclusive, particularly as rising living costs and ongoing challenges across the live music industry continue to impact artists and creative workers.
SCMIC has also announced that any nomination fees already paid will be fully refunded, ensuring fairness for those who submitted early.
SCMIC Chair Melissa O’Bryan says the move recognises the financial realities facing many in the music community.
“Across Australia, artists and music workers are navigating a challenging environment, with rising costs and fewer resources available to support creative careers. We want the Sunshine Coast Music Awards to be a celebration that everyone in our industry can participate in.”
The Collective’s inaugural Sunshine Coast Music Awards was a great success at The Station last year, celebrating the artists, venues, studios and industry professionals shaping the region’s vibrant music culture.
Hosted by Sarah Howells alongside Ian “Dicko” Dickson, the night honoured outstanding local talent, with major awards going to artists including Ziggy Alberts, Betty Taylor, Minnie Marks, Frank and Louis, and Yama Nui Studios.
The 2026 Sunshine Coast Music Awards will again feature 11 categories, recognising not only artistic and commercial achievement but also the wider network of venues, studios, promoters and industry professionals who form the backbone of the Sunshine Coast’s music ecosystem.
The Committee’s Working Musician’s Chair, Shannon Carroll, reflects on the need for community in overcoming a difficult time for the industry.
"Challenging times are exactly when we need to come together as a creative community. The SCMAs provide the local music industry an opportunity to celebrate each other’s achievements, songs and recordings.
Many creative artists and musicians are living from gig to gig, and we recognise that submission fees might be the difference between nominating or not. In waiving the fees, SCMIC encourages everyone to nominate, attend and support each other to co-create the future of our vibrant Sunshine Coast music scene."
By removing nomination fees, SCMIC hopes to ensure the awards reflect the full breadth of the region’s music scene, from emerging artists to established industry leaders.
Nominations are currently open and close this Friday, March 20.
Artists and industry professionals can view eligibility criteria and submit nominations via the Sunshine Coast Music Industry Collective website.
For More information head to the SCMIC website.
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