Soundcheck '26 brings panels, networking and a live showcase to St Kilda
Getting a foothold in Melbourne’s music industry usually means trekking north of the Yarra for every panel, showcase and networking opportunity going. Soundcheck ’26 is flipping that script, planting a full-day forum and live music event right in the heart of St Kilda.
Soundcheck ’26 lands at St Kilda Sports Club on 8 February, combining industry panels with a showcase of emerging bands from Melbourne’s southern suburbs. The event is a collaboration between Bayside City Council, City of Port Phillip, Sky Music, RAWKUS Live and Rock Academy, with support from Music Victoria, APRA AMCOS, Beat Magazine, Oztix and Songmakers.
Soundcheck ’26
- St Kilda Sports Club, 66 Fitzroy Street, St Kilda
- 8 February, 11am – 5pm
- Free entry and lunch for attendees aged 23 and under
- $13.30 entry only for 24+, $23.50 with lunch
- Tickets via Oztix
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The day splits into two distinct halves. From 11am, a series of panels will tackle the practical side of building a music career, covering everything from social media strategy and brand development to booking paid gigs and navigating royalties and distribution. The sessions are led by industry figures, community radio representatives and professional managers.
A free barbecue lunch follows the panels, giving attendees a chance to connect with mentors, producers and fellow musicians before the volume gets turned up. From 1:45pm, the Best of RAWKUS Live showcase takes over with six emerging acts delivering 20-minute sets. Paper St, Monroe, Distasteful Microwaves, Jaded St, The Masons and Erica Avenue make up the lineup, representing some of the most promising talent coming out of the southside.
A launchpad for young musicians
The timing positions Soundcheck ’26 as a warm-up to the St Kilda Festival, but the event’s ambitions extend beyond a single afternoon. The organisers have designed it as a launchpad for young musicians who want to turn bedroom projects into something more sustainable, without having to cross the city for every opportunity.
Entry is free for anyone aged 23 and under, including lunch. Those 24 and over can grab entry-only tickets for $13.30 or add lunch for $23.50. The event is open to punters as well as players, so even if you’re just there to catch some bands and soak up the atmosphere, the doors are open.
