“The AWMAs are a fantastic addition to Queensland’s vibrant arts scene. They are another great opportunity to showcase the tremendous creativity and depth of talent of our many female artists and I hope it’s a springboard to further and well-deserved success,” said The Honourable Di Farmer, Minister for Child Safety, Youth and Women and Minister for the Prevention of Domestic and Family Violence.

“As well as the opportunity to celebrate tremendous talent, AWMA provides a platform for artists and music practitioners including those in regional and remote areas, to come together, to learn and empower one another. We received almost double the nominations this year, from every state and across all areas of diversity, reflecting the urgent need for change in the Australian music industry,” said AWMA Founding Director and Executive Producer, Vicki Gordon.

Fifteen AWMAs will be up for grabs following the public nomination process and judging by a prestigious group of industry professionals and practitioners. A special award will once again be presented to this year’s inductee for the AWMA Honour Roll 2019.

The AWMA Ceremony, Concert and Party will include a dazzling mix of music genres and some of Australia’s biggest music names and most inspiring artists, with performances featuring Renee Geyer, Katie Noonan, Clare Bowditch, Minda Schneider, Ngaiire, Kaylah Truth, Cheryl Barker, Tamara-Anna Cislowska and more.

In addition to the awards night, the AWMAs will host a two-day program at the Brisbane Powerhouse on 8 & 9 October that includes a series of thought-provoking forums and panel discussions (Visibility in Hip Hop: Women On The Front Line, The Art of Rebellion: The Intersection of Music & Politics, Image Making: The Changing Face of Music), and a keynote address by noted broadcaster, musician, writer, teacher and philanthropist Eddie Ayres.