NT Govt launches Music Export Fund with Music NT: Musos have greater access to national and international stages

Northern Territory musicians will have greater access to national and international stages, with the Finocchiaro CLP Government providing $100,000 to MusicNT to launch a new Music Export Fund.

Music Export Fund. Mark Smith (Executive Director MusicNT), Leah Flanagan (Local artist) and Minister for Arts Jinson Charls.

Northern Territory musicians will have greater access to national and international stages, with the Finocchiaro CLP Government providing $100,000 to launch a new Music Export Fund.

The initiative, administered by MusicNT, will support NT music professionals to participate in industry events and professional development opportunities, leading to showcasing, touring and recording prospects across Australia and around the world.

Music NT Executive Director Mark Smith welcomed the support, saying the fund would be transformational for local artists.

“Northern Territory artists are producing some of the most exciting music in the country at the moment,” Mr Smith said.

“Through this new initiative, we look forward to supporting industry and artists to take their next steps nationally and internationally.

“This fund will allow musicians to develop their skills, expand their networks and access new audiences – all critical steps in building sustainable careers in music.

“We’re grateful to the Territory Government for recognising the importance of music as both a cultural asset and an economic driver.”

Minister Bill Yan and Minister Jinson Charls. Picture: Pema Tamang Pakhrin

Minister for Arts Jinson Charls said the fund was a strategic investment that delivers on the CLP Government’s Rebuilding the Economy: NT Economic Strategy 2025 to unlock regional growth.

“This initiative breaks down the barriers of geographic isolation and ensures NT musicians can connect with national and international markets, something the CLP Government will continue to support as part of our year of action, certainty and security,” said Mr Charls.

“Whether it’s touring, showcasing at global industry events or recording with key collaborators, the Music Export Fund will help our artists grow their careers and put NT music on the map.”

The funding responds directly to challenges raised by musicians at the 2024 Regional and Remote Music Summit, where limited connectivity and export opportunities were identified as key issues for artists in the Territory.

MusicNT is the peak body for contemporary music in the Northern Territory, with a membership of 3,500 and a proven track record of delivering targeted programs that grow the local music industry.

The Music Export Fund is now open, with NT musicians encouraged to apply via MusicNT.