2026 Queensland Music Awards Winners Revealed

Why It Matters

The wins underscore Queensland’s growing influence in Australia’s music market and signal stronger export potential for local artists, while the recognition of venues and festivals reinforces the ecosystem that nurtures talent.

Key Takeaways

• Ball Park Music clinched Album of the Year and Highest Selling Album
• Jem Cassar-Daley won Song of the Year, 'Kiss Me Like You’re Leaving'
• Hollow Coves named Export Artist, highlighting Queensland's global reach
• Maleny Music Festival earned Festival of the Year award
• 4ZZZ honored with Lifetime Achievement for community radio impact

Pulse Analysis

The Queensland Music Awards have become a barometer for the state’s creative vitality, and this year’s ceremony at Gold Coast’s Miami Marketta reinforced that reputation. By awarding Ball Park Music both Album of the Year and Highest Selling Album, the event highlighted the commercial viability of homegrown indie rock, a genre that has steadily gained national airplay and streaming traction. The inclusion of categories ranging from Blues/Roots to World Music illustrates the breadth of talent emerging from Queensland, positioning the region as a micro‑cosm of Australia’s eclectic soundscape.

Beyond the headline acts, the awards spotlighted artists who are expanding Queensland’s reach beyond domestic borders. Hollow Coves, recognized as Export Artist, exemplifies how streaming platforms enable regional musicians to build global fanbases without relocating. Meanwhile, Jem Cassar‑Daley’s Song of the Year win signals a resurgence of strong songwriting in the pop arena, while the Highest Selling Single by Fisher demonstrates the commercial power of electronic dance music in the local market. These outcomes suggest that Queensland’s artists are not only resonating with Australian audiences but also carving out niches internationally.

The ceremony also celebrated the infrastructure that fuels this growth. Honoring venues like The Tivoli and festivals such as Maleny underscores the importance of live‑music ecosystems in artist development. Community radio station 4ZZZ receiving a Lifetime Achievement award highlights the role of grassroots media in amplifying emerging voices. Collectively, these recognitions point to a robust, interconnected network that will likely sustain Queensland’s music export momentum and attract further investment in the coming years.