A new music initiative is giving Australian artists a global springboard by facilitating collaborations with international producers.
The Australian Recording Industry Association (ARIA) Collab program is an ongoing series of immersive, week-long recording sessions in state-of-the-art studios with “some of the most innovative figures in modern music production”.
ARIA CEO Annabelle Herd said the program would help 10 local artists, with the goal of creating and releasing export-ready, cross-border hits.
Ms Herd said five Aussie artists would be selected to work with groundbreaking producer WondaGurl in Melbourne in early March next year, with anther cohort teaming up with GRAMMY-nominated producer Tommy Brown in Sydney, later that month.
She said ARIA Collab was a unique opportunity for Australian artists to collaborate with world-class producer artists.
“More than creating hit records, this program is a major step toward better positioning Australia as a global music hub, bringing world-class artists to our shores to discover exactly how strong the talent in this country is, rather than waiting for that to occur overseas.”
Ms Herd said in addition to collaborating with artists, the initiative would provide opportunities for local recording professionals including engineers and producers, fostering skill-building and professional connections.
“We’re committed to ensuring Australian music reaches its fullest potential in an increasingly globalised environment.”
Ms Herd said ARIA Member Record labels were invited to submit artists for consideration by the end of January.
She said ARIA would cover key production costs, including studio hire, mixing, mastering, and initial marketing efforts, ensuring the program is accessible to emerging talent.
“Applications will be assessed by an expert panel on artistic merit, career trajectory, team structure, marketing potential, and commitment to diversity and inclusion.”
