MusicNSW Tone Shift 2026: $2,500 Microfund for NSW Music Artists
A New South Wales microfund for contemporary music
MusicNSW’s Tone Shift is a targeted microfund for women, trans, non-binary and gender non-conforming artists creating contemporary music in New South Wales. The programme offers up to A$2,500 for essential equipment, professional studio time and access support that directly enables the creation or presentation of new work. It is a NSW-focused Australian opportunity, not a worldwide call.
Who can apply
Applicants must identify as a woman, trans, non-binary or gender non-conforming person; be an Australian citizen or permanent resident; have been based in New South Wales for at least 12 months; be at least 18 years old; be a practising contemporary music artist; and hold an Australian Business Number. MusicNSW defines contemporary music broadly as new and original music written, produced, performed or recorded by an artist, regardless of genre or commercial intention.
What the microfund can support
The official page identifies three main areas. Home-recording support can include microphones, audio interfaces, instruments, DAW licences with training and plug-ins. Studio-space support can include professional recording sessions and studio hire needed to rehearse, write, record or release music. Performance support can include suitable instruments, amplifiers, CDJs, keyboards or synthesisers, drum kits and PA equipment. An applicant may request a contribution toward a higher-cost item but must explain how the remaining cost will be covered.
Assessment and application
A panel of music-industry practitioners will assess the artist’s current career stage, why this support is timely and how the applicant will demonstrate its impact on their practice. Applicants should choose the spending category that best represents the majority of the proposed costs, describe the artistic need in concrete terms and show how the purchase or studio access will reduce a real barrier to creating or presenting new music.
Deadline
Applications opened on 10 September 2026 and close on Saturday 31 October 2026 at 11:59pm, using the time label published by MusicNSW. Results are expected in January 2027. Applicants should submit early and check the live application form for any updates to the closing-time convention, required evidence or file formats.
Official information and application
This article is an editorial summary and does not determine eligibility. Read the official programme page, FAQs and application form in full before applying. Information checked on 15 October 2026.