The celebration, recognition and affirmation of the immense roles women have within the music industry – both onstage and behind the scenes – the finalists for the 2023 Australian Women In Music Awards (AWMA) showcase a breadth of phenomenal talent.
Featured finalists include Jessica Mauboy, Sarah McLeod, Kate Ceberano, Beccy Cole, Vika & Linda and Marianna Annas, with twenty categories highlighting the achievements of musicians, technicians, leaders, elders, performers, songwriters, producers, engineers, filmmakers, photographers, music journalists and more."AWMA has raised the collective voice – demanding equitable access, safety and recognition for women in the Australian music industry," shares AWMA founding Executive Producer & Program Director Vicki Gordon.
"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."
The finalists and members of the music industry will gather at a star-studded ceremony, black carpet, concert and party in Meanjin/ Brisbane on 27 September, which will be later broadcast on ABC TV, while the AWMA conference programme will be staged 26 September.
"I have seen the industry of music in this country change so much," says 2023 AWMA Lifetime Achievement Award finalist Kate Ceberano, "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 likeminded artists who wish to share their wisdom and prevail despite all provocation to do otherwise!"
The finalists were assessed by a 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.
"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," says Dr Diana Tolmie, Senior Lecturer of Professional Practice at the Queensland Conservatorium Griffith University, D'Addario international artist and AWMA Juror Chair.
With the AWMAs proudly supported by the Queensland Government alongside corporate, industry and community partners – including scenestr – it is a movement building real-life momentum.
Queensland Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk congratulated this year's AWMA finalists and honourees. "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," the Premier says.
"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 applauds the inspirational women whose talent and commitment is recognised by the AWMAs.
"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," Minister Enoch says.
"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 says: "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."
The 2023 Australian Women in Music Awards ceremony-concert and conference programme will be staged at The Tivoli (Meanjin/Brisbane) 26-27 September.
