Ben Lee ProfileNovember is Ausmusic Month, and one of the jewels in its crown is AusMusic T-Shirt Day. A chance to proudly rep your faves (or PDA, as Music Australia prompts us this year) - AusMusic T-Shirt Day is also an important day to raise awareness and funds for Support Act. Support Act is an important bedrock of the Australian music and creative industries, first dreamed of in 1980 and financially realised in 1997.
Supporting workers not just when the going gets tough, but whenever and wherever they are going, we asked a few of the 2026 AusMusic T-Shirt Day ambassadors about their relationship to Support Act, and the gentle art of band T-shirts in general.
We started with Support Act’s current CEO, Clive Miller, followed by local legends Rachael Fahim, Ben Lee, Vera Blue, Kobie Dee, Sarah McLeod and Becca Hatch. Come for the warm and fuzzies, stay for the tall tales of the best place someone has seen one of their own T-shirts out in the wild!
Clive Miller - Support Act CEO
How long have you been at Support Act and what keeps you there?
I started at Support Act in 2018, having worked in various not-for-profit organisations for more than 30 years. It was a full-circle moment, having started my professional life as a broadcaster, indie promoter and band manager. So I like to think I bring good skills and experience to the role, and I love working back in music again and making a difference in the lives of music workers who are doing it tough.
What do you see as particularly distinct about Support Art here for the Australian industry?
We discovered during COVID that there are really good organisations in the UK, Europe, the USA and elsewhere doing great work to support their music workers. Support Act was a little ahead of the curve for a while in relation to its mental health counselling and training programs, but I think that is now standard in most other organisations.
One thing that might set us apart at the moment is the support we receive from the Australian Government through Creative Workplaces, which has enabled us to expand the delivery of our mental health programs and services across the wider creative industries.
The work that our First Nations team is doing is also unique, in my view. Not only are they delivering culturally intelligent services to First Nations music workers, but they are managing the First Nations Music Industry Review, which is examining the experiences of First Nations people working in contemporary music. That report will be delivered in the first part of next year, and I anticipate there will be a lot of interest in its findings and recommendations.
What’s your favourite band t-shirt?
I have quite a few, and I always look forward to stocking up my wardrobe each year in the lead-up to AusMusic T-Shirt Day. Suffice to say I love all the tees in our Limited Edition T-Shirt range this year, but I will give a special shout-out to the Rob Hirst design, the Baker Boy tee, the Vanessa Amorosi tee, our Kids tee, and our hero T-shirt. But as I said, they are all incredible - and I have bought one of each!!
Where is the best place you've seen someone wearing a shirt of YOURS (a specialist support act T-shirt that is)?
I attended a great event this week in Melbourne to celebrate the launch of the late Rob Hirst’s book, World Is Almost at Peace. It was a private event for the Midnight Oil fan club, the Powderworkers, and there were old and new T-shirts from our range being worn by many in the audience. It was great to see.
Do you have any advice for people who aren't sure if they should contribute, especially with the cost of living, etc at the moment?
We absolutely recognise that times are tough for many people at the moment. And we would only ever encourage people to donate if they have the means to do so. But if people can, and want to show their support for artists, artist managers, crew and music workers who are in crisis and struggling with so many challenges at the moment, then we hope they can consider buying one of our Limited Edition T-shirts, setting up a fundraising team or donating directly to the campaign at ausmusictshirtday.org.au
Rachael Fahim - Country Music’s fabulous future
Why did you decide to get involved in AusMusic T-Shirt Day?
I think it’s such a fun initiative, and supporting Aussie music is something that’s really important to me. Our music industry is full of incredible talent, and I think it’s so important that we continue to celebrate, support and look after the people who make it what it is. If I can play a small part in that, I’m all for it!
What do you see as particularly distinct about Support Act here for the Australian industry?
What makes Support Act so special is that they look after the entire music community, not just the artists on stage. From crisis relief to mental health and wellbeing support, they provide a vital safety net for people working in an unpredictable industry. I love that they bring the music community together while making a real, practical difference to the lives of the people behind the music.
What’s your favourite band T-shirt?
I don't think I have one particular favourite, but I love a good band tee! There's something special about wearing merch and showing support for an artist you love, and I love that 9/10 the shirt will open up a conversation!
Where is the best place you've seen someone wearing a shirt of YOURS?
I can't think of one particular place, but I absolutely love looking out into the crowd when I'm on stage and spotting someone wearing my merch. It's such a cool feeling seeing people show their support and knowing they're proud to wear it!
Do you have any advice for people who aren't sure if they should contribute?
Every little bit helps! You don't have to make a huge contribution to make a difference. If you love music and want to see our industry continue to thrive, supporting organisations like Support Act is such a great way to give back to the people who make it all happen.
Ben Lee - indie pop legend from the 90s till now - still proudly annoying
Why did you decide to get involved in AusMusic T-Shirt Day?
Helping people and band T-shirts are two of my passions! How could I pass up a day dedicated to these two things?
Do you know of anything similar to Support Act anywhere else? Are we unique?
I think the music industry has often aspired to take care of its own. In 1993, a bunch of alternative musicians put out a tribute album to a singer-songwriter that I loved named Victoria Williams after she was diagnosed with MS. This led to the formation of something called Sweet Relief in the US. I absolutely loved that - it was my first exposure to the idea of industry-led initiatives that could support our peers during a time of need.
There is another model called MusiCares in the US. Support Act formed in 1997 and takes this concept and really goes further: it is actually founded by the industry itself (ARIA, PPCA and APRA AMCOS) and literally helps thousands of people every year. Anyone can apply to help with crisis relief, and each case is judged confidentially and individually.
What's your favourite band T-Shirt?
My T-shirt game is incredibly strong; I have quite a collection. Some of my favourites include a vintage Hoodoo Gurus shirt, an old Sonic Youth shirt and a Descendants shirt I've had for years.
Where is the best place you've seen someone wearing a shirt of YOURS?
At a local cafe. Out in the wild. That’s the best. And it was a “Ben Lee is My Homeboy” shirt.
Do you have any advice for people who aren't sure if they should contribute?
Not sure? Just wear your fav Australian band T-shirt. Then throw in the price of a beer for the people who made the music you love. That’s it. You’re in.
Vanessa Amorosi - celebrating 25 years live and loved by absolutely everybody
Why did you decide to get involved in AusMusic T-Shirt Day?
I’ve been following AusMusic T-Shirt Day for years; it’s one of those events you want to rally behind and get involved. It’s rare to have so many positive messages behind one cause. Last year I wore a G Flip T-Shirt, one of my fav Aussies!! Between highlighting struggles within the industry and supporting local acts, it's just amazing.
Have you had any direct involvement with Support Art - not just as an ambassador, but directly using their services?
During the pandemic, I did a lot of research on Support Act. It really was a scary time. I was chatting with my band in Australia, and they were telling me stories of what was happening in the industry and how Support Act was helping music crews and players. I was in America at the time, but I shared a few links with my industry friends.
What’s your favourite band T-Shirt?
I love obnoxious graphics on T-shirts, so I find myself buying concert tees based not only on who I love but the design itself.
Where is the best place you've seen someone wearing a shirt of YOURS?
I love seeing it at my shows. When I play festivals around the country, I’ll spot a few people who have followed my career for years and see them wearing ones from years ago. It’s special to see.
Do you have any advice for people who aren't sure if they should contribute?
I feel like Australians just love music in general. We love attending shows and festivals! I’m always seeing the line out the door for merch; it’s their way of supporting, and when you’ve got a day dedicated to it, it makes it all that more special. I love the call to action that they have in place to get companies/work buddies on board too.
Vera Blue - Folk/Pop/Synth musical magpie - all in and all great!
Why did you decide to get involved in AusMusic T-Shirt Day?
Music has given me so much, and I think it’s really important that we look after the people who make this industry what it is. There are so many incredible humans working behind the scenes, as well as artists, who pour their hearts into what they do. It’s an industry full of passion, but it can also be really unpredictable and challenging. I love that AusMusic T-Shirt Day is such a fun, simple way to celebrate Australian music while supporting the people who bring it to life and bringing awareness to such an important cause.
Have you ever used Support Act’s services?
While I haven’t personally accessed Support Act’s services, my husband, who works as an audio engineer, received support from them during the really difficult COVID years when the live music industry came to a standstill. It was such an uncertain and challenging time for so many people in our industry, particularly those working behind the scenes. Seeing firsthand the difference that Support Act can make has made this cause even more meaningful to me.
What do you see as particularly distinct about Support Act in the Australian music industry?
I think what’s so special about Support Act is that they recognise the people behind the music, not just the ones standing on stage. Our industry is such a beautiful community, but it can also be incredibly vulnerable. Whether you’re an artist, a sound engineer, a tour manager or someone working tirelessly behind the scenes, everyone deserves to feel supported. I think there’s something really beautiful about an organisation that understands the unique pressures of this industry and reminds people that they’re not alone.
What’s your favourite band T-shirt?
I have a few favs! Over the years, I have accumulated a lot of unique Skeggs merch from my husband, who is their audio engineer, so I’ve attended a lot of their shows and always walked away with a cool new design. I have a Kylie Minogue shirt that I love, but my favourite go-to is my MAY-A tee. It’s just super cool and goes with everything.
Where’s the best place you’ve seen someone wearing a shirt of YOURS?
I always get such a kick out of seeing someone wearing my merch out in the wild! It’s one thing seeing people wearing it at a show, but spotting it in the most ordinary, unexpected places is so surreal. I still find it pretty wild that someone would choose to wear my name on their body while going about their day. It’s very cool! I’ve seen someone wearing my merch in the supermarket. And my dad always wears my Perennial socks!
Do you have any advice for people who aren’t sure if they should contribute?
I’d say even the smallest contribution can make a difference. You don’t have to do something huge to have an impact. Whether it’s buying a T-shirt, making a donation or simply spreading the word, it all helps. Music is such a huge part of our lives, and I think sometimes we forget just how many people it takes to make it happen. This is a really lovely opportunity to give a little love back to the community that gives us so much.
Kobie Dee - master musician, collaborator and founder of Twenny 47 Studios
Why did you decide to get involved in AusMusic T-Shirt Day?
A chance to support local artists, and the money goes to a great cause.
Have you ever used Support Act’s services yourself?
I haven't, but I'm aware of other artists that have needed to access their support.
What's your favourite band T-Shirt?
I really wanted to support Will Grilla this year because he is someone I have been inspired by since I started making music.
Where is the best place you've seen someone wearing a shirt of YOURS?
I saw someone wearing my Maroubra Villain shirt at the Koori Knock Out!
Do you have any advice for people who aren't sure if they should contribute?
The life of an artist can be hard, and having extra support is really important.
Sarah McCleod - Loud, Proud, Powerful Oz Rock Royalty
Why did you decide to get involved in AusMusic T-Shirt Day?
Well, for a start, I love Aussie Music and the Aussie music ethos, which is so different to those around the world. We don't have big budgets, but we have a great work ethic. Because it's so tough to make a living here from music, we have to work harder than the rest. There's no room for complacency, just passion. And along with that comes no safety net, nothing to rely on or plan for. Support Act is such an important part of our infrastructure. And to support our fellow hard-working Aussies whilst raising money for Support Act is a no-brainer.
Have you ever used Support Act’s services?
I haven't directly, but my girlfriend, who is also a musician, has needed some guidance at a difficult time and found them very helpful.
What's your favourite band T-Shirt?
My fav is my Magic Dirt T-shirt: "What Are Rock Stars Doing Today". Super cool and relatable 😂
Where is the best place you've seen someone wearing a shirt of YOURS?
Bunnings!
Do you have any advice for people who aren't sure if they should contribute?
There's no reason to be unsure; you like Aussie music- contribute... if you don't, don't.
Becca Hatch - Fierce fusion with unequalled energy
Why did you decide to get involved in AusMusic T-Shirt Day?
I have been in the music industry for almost 10 years. There have been so many amazing people I've met along the way who have supported me and helped me make music a possibility for me. This is a way I can give big to that community.
What makes Support Act unique within the Australian music industry?
I love how Support Act provides support for not only our artist community but the people who are in the background that aren't always in the light: live sound engineers, tour managers, producers, management, etc.
What's your favourite band T-shirt?
My Armlock Tee, I wear it all the time :)
Where's the best place you’ve seen someone wearing one of YOUR shirts?
Probably at the gym!
What advice would you give to people who are unsure about contributing?
Support Act does amazing work for our music community. By supporting us, you are helping keep our music ecosystem running.
AusMusic T-Shirt Day takes place on Thursday, 26 November. Purchase a tee or donate to Support Act here.
