Australia's emerging musicians can now chase stardom through the St Kilda Festival New Music Competition.
The St Kilda Festival has launched entries for its celebrated New Music Competition. This platform has nurtured talent since 2007.
The competition offers more than just recognition. Winners receive serious career opportunities at Australia’s biggest free music festival.
Past winners have achieved remarkable success. The St Kilda Festival’s New Music Competition launched careers for Baker Boy, Missy Higgins and Client Liaison.
St Kilda Festival – New Music Competition
- Entries open: Now until 3 September
- Competition performance dates: Saturday 14 and Sunday 15 February 2026
- Prize: $5000 cash plus main stage slot at 2027 festival
- Entry: Free
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The selection process prioritises quality and originality. Acts must remain unsigned to qualify. Judges seek creative flair across diverse musical genres. Festival suitability plays a crucial role in selections.
Up to 10 acts will earn competition spots. These finalists perform 30-minute sets of original material. They’ll take the New Music Stage during the festival weekend.
Audience votes determine the ultimate winner. The winning act secures that coveted $5000 prize.
Success extends beyond prize money. Winners earn invitations to perform on key stages at the following year’s festival.
The competition spans musical genres without restriction. Rock, pop, electronic, folk and experimental acts all find welcome. This diversity enriches the festival’s overall programming.
Applications remain open until early September.
For more information, head here.
