Australian Women in Music Awards 2023 Finalists Announced
Jessica Mauboy, Sarah McLeod, Kate Ceberano, Beccy Cole, Vika & Linda and Marianna Annas are among the exceptional list of finalists for this year’s Australian Women in Music Awards (AWMA) which will be presented at a star-studded ceremony, black carpet, concert and party in Meanjin/Brisbane on 27th September, 2023 and later broadcast on ABC TV.
Australian Women in Music Awards (AWMA) has become one of the most important events on the Australian music industry calendar, acknowledging the vast contributions and shining a light on the incredible accomplishments of women across all areas of industry from on stage, to those working behind the scenes, technicians, leaders, elders, performers, songwriters, producers, engineers, filmmakers and photographers, music journalists and more.
AWMA Founding Executive Producer & Program Director Vicki Gordon:
AWMA has raised the collective voice – demanding equitable access, safety and recognition for women in the Australian music industry. We support and promote women as vital, essential contributors to the future Business growth of the sector and are calling on the industry to adopt Gender Equality as a Core Music Industry value. Gender equity is still a long way in the future and we all need to remain vigilant.
Twenty AWMAs are ready to be snapped up this year, from a public and self-nomination process that attracted hundreds of individual nominations, each assessed by a specially-convened 37 seat Jury Council comprised of industry professionals and practitioners of the highest calibre, with representation across a diverse range of music disciplines and cultures.
Dr Diana Tolmie, Senior Lecturer of Professional Practice at the Queensland Conservatorium Griffith University, D’Addario International Artist AWMA Juror Chair:
We received nominations from every state and across all areas of diversity, the quality was exceptional with a broad representation from artists and music practitioners who operate outside the mainstream industry. It made the task of our Jurors very tough.
2023 AWMA Lifetime achievement award finalist Kate Ceberano:
I have seen the industry of music in this country change so much and the education and delivery of music through the eyes and hearts of Australian women, my peers Renée, Chrissie, Olivia, Colleen, Kylie and more. It has been an education and at times a baptism by fire. But we are hardy and the Australian singers that are striking notes globally, not only with their music but with their minds, is outstanding.
I’m glad to be a part of this modern community of like minded artists who wish to share their wisdom and prevail despite all provocation to do otherwise!
Queensland Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk congratulated this year’s AWMA finalists and honourees.
The Premier:
Our government is proud to have supported the Australian Women in Music Awards for several years – hosting some of the country’s most brilliant performers at major Brisbane venues including The Tivoli.
This event not only celebrates the most innovative, committed, and visionary singers and songwriters in Australian music, it provides an opportunity to further promote gender equality and diversity including the voices of First Nations women.
The future looks bright for the music industry as our government invests in a 10-year roadmap to promote arts, culture, and creativity.
Queensland Minister for the Arts Leeanne Enoch also applauded:
The inspirational women whose talent and commitment is recognised through the Australian Women in Music Awards which celebrate and elevate creativity, diversity and inclusivity within the music industry.
This Government is proud to also have supported the awards through the Queensland Arts Showcase Programming to present a showcase of diverse Queensland female First Nations and LGBTQI+ singers, songwriters and musicians as part of the 2023 Australian Women in Music Awards.
Queensland boasts a long and rich history as home to internationally renowned musicians and a vibrant music scene, with events like the Australian Women in Music Awards providing an important platform for our home-grown artists as we look to the Brisbane 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games when our arts, culture, and stories will shine on the global stage.
Minister for Women Shannon Fentiman:
AWMA has always been about recognising the amazing work and achievements of talented female artists and industry professionals, and promoting equal opportunities for women in music.
Congratulations to this year’s finalists, who should not only be proud of their achievements but also the inspiration they provide in empowering young women and girls considering a future in music.
I’ve always said, you can’t be what you can’t see. When we celebrate our talented female artists and industry leaders, we move a step closer towards the goal of gender equality in the music industry.
For more information click Here
