ARIA brings back music festival category for second consecutive year

The short version

• The Australian Recording Industry Association has opened submissions for its Best Music Festival award for a second year.[Billboard]
• Eligible festivals must belong to the Australian Festival Association and showcase either an Australian headliner or at least 50% domestic talent.[Billboard]
• Submissions close Sept. 18 at 5 p.m. AEST, ahead of the 40th annual ARIA Awards on Nov. 18 in Sydney.[Billboard]

Key facts

• The ARIA Award for Best Music Festival is returning for its second year.[Billboard]
• Entries opened Monday and close at 5 p.m. AEST on Friday, Sept. 18.[Billboard]
• Festivals must hold Australian Festival Association membership and feature either an Australian headliner or a lineup of at least 50% Australian artists.[Billboard]
• Laneway Festival was the inaugural winner of the award in 2025.[Billboard]
• The 40th anniversary ARIA Awards ceremony is scheduled for Nov. 18 at Sydney's Hordern Pavilion.[Billboard]

Sources

Outlet counts describe coverage, not independent confirmation. Reports may share a wire service or original source.

• ARIA Award for Best Music Festival Returns for Second YearBillboard