New $2,500 Music Fund Opens for Trans and Non-Binary Artists in Australia
MusicNSW has launched Tone Shift, offering grants of up to A$2,500 for women, trans, non-binary and gender non-conforming musicians in New South Wales.
Women, trans, non-binary and gender non-conforming musicians in New South Wales can now apply for grants of up to A$2,500 to help develop their music careers. The new funding can be used for practical costs ranging from recording equipment to studio sessions and live performance gear.
MusicNSW opened its new Tone Shift microfund on 10 September 2026 with support from Sound NSW. Applications can be made through the official MusicNSW Tone Shift programme until 11.59pm AEST on 31 October 2026, with successful applicants expected to hear the outcome in January 2027.
What can artists use the funding for?
Artists can apply for support towards home recording equipment, microphones, instruments, software and professional studio sessions. Performance equipment including amplifiers, keyboards, drums and PA systems can also be included.
The maximum grant is A$2,500, but musicians are not restricted to buying items below that amount. Applicants can request a contribution towards something more expensive and cover the remaining cost themselves.
Applicants must be aged 18 or over, be an Australian citizen or permanent resident and have lived in New South Wales for at least 12 months. An Australian Business Number is also required, although MusicNSW provides guidance for artists who do not already have one.
Why Tone Shift has been created
MusicNSW says women, trans, non-binary and gender non-conforming people continue to face systemic barriers when trying to build sustainable careers in contemporary music. Tone Shift has therefore been designed around some of the practical costs that can stop emerging artists progressing their work.
That makes the programme different from funding focused solely on a finished album, tour or major project. A new microphone, access to studio time or better performance equipment can be a smaller investment while still having a significant effect on what an artist is able to create.
An online information session takes place on 15 September 2026 at 6pm AEST. MusicNSW ambassador Zoe Catterall from The Buoys will take part in a mock application before prospective applicants are given the opportunity to ask questions about the fund.
For emerging trans and non-binary musicians, the programme offers support for the everyday tools needed to turn ideas into finished music and live performances.
Applications remain open until the end of October, giving eligible NSW artists several weeks to prepare their submissions.
Visit & follow www.musicnsw.com for more details
