New report provides roadmap to strengthening regional music

MUSICNSW has released a new report detailing how to strengthen regional and remote music, setting a map for action for government, industry and communities across NSW.

The report gathers insights from 80-plus representatives from across the NSW music sector.

The contributors participated in a NSW Roundtable held at the 2025 Regional and Remote Music Summit and provided insights into opportunities and challenges across First Nations, artist, audience, industry and regional development.

The report provides insights into the unique challenges and opportunities for those involved in music outside metropolitan areas.

Key priorities identified include the need for safe and affordable spaces, mentorship pathways and long-term funding, as well as a strong call for collaboration through a “Do-It-Together” (DIT) approach, and recognition and support for grassroots organisers as essential contributors to local music ecosystems.

Managing Director Joe Muller shares that the report will directly inform the ongoing work of MusicNSW as the state’s peak body for contemporary music, as well as being a valuable resource for the sector at large.

“It is clear – and unsurprising – that many of the recommendations shared in this report are a pointed call to better support the people [who] bring music to life in regional NSW,” he said.

“It is often the case in regional places that one or two dedicated music champions carry the weight and responsibility of propping up their local scene.

“Importantly, the report’s call to ‘Do-It-Together’ reflects something we hear constantly across the state: the strongest communities are built through collaboration across the entire music ecosystem, driven by a shared commitment to music and culture.

“The recommendations presented here will directly inform MusicNSW’s ongoing work across our programs and advocacy [in] 2026.”
To read the full report, go to regionalmusicsummit.com/.