Ninajirachi ProfileOne of Australia’s most exciting dance artists, Ninajirachi, has won the second-ever NSW Music Prize after hardcore band SPEED took home the win last year.
The NSW Music Prize, established by the Minns Labor Government, celebrates local musicians and their achievements. This year, 16 finalists competed across three categories, spanning the $160,000 prize pool.
The winner of the NSW Music Prize receives $80,000. Ninajirachi has scored the prize for her debut album, I Love My Computer, released last August. The album has taken the producer, real name Nina Wilson, to Coachella and culminated in a sold-out Australian tour this year.
“Thank you so much for awarding me the 2026 NSW Music Prize for my album I Love My Computer,” Ninajirachi commented in a statement.
She continued, “So much of this music is about growing up on the Central Coast in NSW. There are lyrics about getting the 64 Bus home from school, there’s a lyric about it taking an hour to get from Kincumber to Gosford, and we shot some of the music videos in Copacabana and Avoca.
“It means a lot for it to be honoured in this way. This album has changed my life, thank you so much, Sound NSW.”
Hip-hop collective 3% won the NSW First Nations Music Prize and were awarded $40,000 for their significant and meaningful impact, with the judging panel citing their singles These Days, Running Through My Head, and Our Greats.
Last but not least, R&B/Soul artist BOY SODA was named the NSW Breakthrough Artist of the Year and took home $40,000 for a groundbreaking year.
The ceremony for this year’s NSW Music Prize was held at the Museum of Contemporary Art Australia on Monday (9 November). Lucy Smith, of triple j Mornings, hosted the event, which included performances by RAGEFLOWER, BOY SODA, and 3%.
Sound NSW delivers the NSW Music Prize, continuing the state government’s key commitment to honour local artists’ achievements.
“This is what a world-class music scene sounds like, and the NSW Government is backing the live music industry with the biggest cash prize in the country,” said NSW Minister for Music and the Night-time Economy, John Graham.
“NSW music is having a moment, and these three winners are leading it. Congratulations to Ninajirachi, 3% and BOY SODA; we can’t wait to see where this takes you.
“Last year, Ninajirachi took home the inaugural Breakthrough Artist of the Year title, and it’s been exciting to see her career trajectory over the past 12 months, to receiving the 2026 NSW Music Prize tonight.
“To every nominee, you’ve given us a year of incredible music. Keep going, because NSW is listening.”
Head of Sound NSW Emily Collins added, “This year’s nominees were extraordinary, making for some tough decisions for our judging panels.
“Great music doesn’t come out of nowhere. It comes from artists willing to take risks, push boundaries and create music that truly connects with people.
“The NSW Music Prize was created to celebrate exactly that. Ninajirachi, 3% and BOY SODA each embody the innovation, authenticity and creative ambition that keeps NSW at the forefront of Australian music.
“Sound NSW is proud to deliver a prize that celebrates our artists and invests in their futures, and we can’t wait to see what the winners do next.”
