Meet Queensland's First Regional Arts Advisor – Music

• Alex joins the team at QMusic who are proud to be one of six organisations contracted to deliver RASN services across Queensland till 2027.

• QMusic will offer free, artform-specific advice and referral services to support artists and arts workers in the Music sector. 

QMusic is thrilled to join six other Queensland Arts organisations as providers under the Queensland Government’s new Regional Arts Service Network (RASN) delivery model. The team welcomes Sunshine Coast music scene mainstay, Alex Henriksson as Regional Arts Advisor, Music – made possible through the Queensland Government’s RASN partnerships.

Previously offering services based on geographical location, RASN now engages artform-focused providers with a statewide approach, employing regionally based artform specialists. This is designed to boost the capacity of Queensland’s creative workforce and grow a vibrant statewide arts scene ahead of Brisbane 2032.

“I’m incredibly excited to step into this role, supporting musicians and organisations across Queensland through QMusic, in partnership with Arts Queensland and the Regional Arts Services Network,” said Henriksson, who has been making music since 2002 and is an established music producer, creative director, and live-music curator recognised for his work across recording, artist development, and large-scale event production.

“Mentoring emerging artists has always been a driving passion of mine, and I see this role as an opportunity to be a bridge - helping creatives move from where they are now to where they want to be in sustainable, meaningful ways.

“A key focus for me this year is encouraging deeper conversations around why we make music in the first place, and using that as a foundation to build strong, connected communities. When artists are grounded in purpose, it not only strengthens their work, but the entire ecosystem around them.”

Having collaborated with celebrated Australian artists including Matt Corby, The Dreggs, Hollow Coves, Great Gable, and Tia Gostelow; Alex has made production and creative contributions connected to ARIA-nominated projects, and his professional experience spans independent artistry through to major-label frameworks via collaborations intersecting with Warner Music.

Minister for the Arts John-Paul Langbroek said the new approach to RASN responded to sector feedback, recognising the unique needs of the State’s creative workforce.

“The Crisafulli Government is committed to strengthening the state’s arts sector,” Minister Langbroek said.

“These expert providers will support artists and creatives with artform-based skills development and advice for careers and arts businesses.

“A statewide service coordinator will address challenges and boost opportunities in the sector.

“The Regional Arts Services Network will also help Queenslander’s access arts experiences and creative employment in their own communities, no matter where they live.

“After a decade of decline under the former Labor Government, this initiative forms part of the Crisafulli Government’s 10-year strategy for arts and culture, Queensland’s Time to Shine.

“The Crisafulli Government is delivering the foundations for Queensland’s arts sector, which will pave the way for creatives, stories and communities to shine, as we head towards the 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games.”

CEO of QMusic, Kris Stewart said 

“We believe music is for all Queenslanders and are honoured to be entrusted by the Queensland Government with the fostering of our state’s regional music talent.”

“As an active and deeply embedded member of the regional music community Alex is perfectly placed to guide our team and the state’s next generation of musicians. We’re (QMusic) always excited to work with passionate music lovers committed to developing a vibrant music scene and are fully supportive of the Government’s new approach to the delivery RASN.”

Hitting the ground running, Henriksson is working to bring QMusic's Industry Connect to the regions, creating free online resources for the music industry and of course, offering advice and referral services for professionals at all stages of their career in the Queensland music sector.

To learn more and connect with Alex Henriksson and the broader RASN network, visit rasn.au.

For further information on QMusic and its programs, visit www.qmusic.com.au.

The Regional Arts Services Network is an initiative of the Queensland Government through Arts Queensland

QMusic acknowledges the many Traditional Custodian groups across what is now referred to as Queensland. We pay our respect to all elders: past and present. As a peak body, we also acknowledge the important role that music has played and continues to play on these lands since the very first sunrise.