BIGSOUND is turning 25, and it's marking the milestone by putting more support behind artists than ever before.
Announced at the official launch at Brisbane's The Brightside, QMusic revealed that every act selected for the BIGSOUND 100 receives additional financial support in 2026, including travel assistance, an extra conference delegate pass and a new QR code donation system that lets festival-goers tip artists directly during showcase performances.
Running from September 1-4 across Fortitude Valley, this year's conference centres on the theme Creatives in Conversation, tackling everything from artist wellbeing and AI to international export opportunities and Brisbane 2032. The Goolwal Goolwal program also returns with a strong First Nations focus, featuring 12 First Nations artists in the BIGSOUND 100 alongside industry panels, networking events and cultural showcases.
Festival organisers also confirmed the return of triple j's servicing sessions and AMRAP listening sessions, while Up Bank and Monster Children once again offer a $20,000 cash prize to one showcasing artist.
With the full showcase schedule now live, BIGSOUND 2026 is shaping up to be one of the event's biggest editions yet.
Photos from the BIGSOUND 2026 launch at The Brightside. Images: Simone Gorman-Clark
