Ziggy Ramo, Ninajirachi, Party Dozen & More Lead Finalists For Inaugural NSW Music Prize

Months after the NSW Government announced the launch of the inaugural NSW Music Prize, the nascent cultural competition has unveiled its list of finalists.

Recognising musical releases or artists who experienced a significant career breakthrough during the eligibility period of 1 July 2024 and 30 June 2025, three acts will be recognised across as many categories at an awards ceremony at the Museum of Contemporary Art Australia in Sydney on Monday, November 24th.

The three categories include the $80,000 NSW Music Prize, to be awarded to the NSW artist or act whose release has had the most significant impact; the $40,000 NSW First Nations Music Prize, the First Nations artist or act whose release has had significant and meaningful impact; and the $40,000 NSW Breakthrough Artist of the Year award, to be given to an emerging NSW artist or act who has had a groundbreaking year.

Ten finalists have been named for the NSW Music Prize, with acts such as 3%, BARKAA, Kobie Dee, Ninajirarchi, and ONFOUR leading the charge. Party Dozen, RÜFÜS DU SOL, Shady Nasty, SPEED, and Vv Pete & Utility round out the ten finalists, with their respective records of the past year being named alongside their mentions.

Five acts make up the NSW First Nations Music Prize, with 3% and BARKAA making a second appearance, while Djanaba, Stiff Gins, and Ziggy Ramo serve as fresh faces.

Lastly, finalists for the NSW Breakthrough Artist Of The Year include Don West and Royel Otis, alongside Ninajirarchi, Shady Nasty, and SPEED.

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The final list of winners will be chosen by a seasoned judging panel, ahead of their formal announcement at the awards ceremony on November 24th.

“Unless we back local musicians, the wave of algorithmically enhanced American music will continue to swamp us,” John Graham, Minister For Music And The Night-Time Economy, said in a statement. “We have amazing song writers and world class live performers here in NSW and this is a moment to celebrate them.

“Awarding the biggest prize in Australian music will provide a vital financial boost for the winners and a big incentive for the next generation of aspiring stars. When you look at these names you can see how much talent we have in NSW. We want to boost their careers, recognise the cultural importance of local music and inspire the next generation of prize winners.“

“Artists are at the heart of our music industry and we’re so proud to be celebrating our state’s impressive talent,” added Head of Sound NSW, Emily Collins. “This year’s finalists remind us just how special music in NSW really is – from groundbreaking albums and unforgettable new tracks, to artists who are pushing boundaries and finding new ways to connect with audiences.

“What shines through in this year’s finalists is the incredible array of talent in our community. From emerging voices to beloved icons, each has left their mark on audiences and is shaping the future of music in NSW.”