Applications open for 2027 APRA Professional Development Awards

The awards aim to create serious career-boosting opportunities for songwriters and composers at pivotal stages of their careers

13 individual recipients will each take home a game-changing $10,000

Applications are open now and close at 5pm (AEST) on Wednesday 23 September

Songwriter and composer members of APRA AMCOS who are at pivotal stages of their careers are invited to apply for the 2027 APRA Professional Development Awards (PDAs).

The awards aim to create serious career-boosting opportunities for songwriters and composers, with 13 individual recipients each taking home a game-changing $10,000.

The funds are designed to help recipients with their professional development through attending workshops, music education courses, composer seminars, co-writing sessions and other relevant activities, either locally or internationally.

Previous recipients include Angie McMahon, Baker Boy, BARKAA, Elsy Wameyo, Gotye, Jem Cassar-Daley, Ngaiire, Rebecca Bracewell, Samuel Marks and Yirrmal.

2026 Country/Americana recipient, Queenie, explains: “Receiving an APRA Professional Development Award was not only incredibly validating as an independent artist, but it also came at a crucial time in my career where a lack of funding was standing in the way of huge opportunities. 

“I truly believe the stars aligned and receiving the award when I did changed the trajectory of my career when I needed it most. For that I am so very grateful. I cannot encourage artists more to apply for the PDA, it could be just the little pot of gold you need!”

Three of the 13 awards will be presented to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander members supporting music creators at different stages of life and career, with two general awards and one for senior members, 50 years and older.

One of the recipients of the 2026 Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander General category, Boox Kid, adds: “Winning the Professional Development Award has been a huge boost for my career. Having an opportunity to write with a seasoned songwriter for my debut album and create contemporary songs that have an emphasis on preserving Noongar language is incredibly special. 

“For any First Nations Artists considering applying, I would say go for it! This is a game changer for me.”

The 2027 award categories are: 

• Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander General (two awards)
• Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Senior (all genres) entrants must be over the age of 50
• Country/Americana
• Classical & Experimental
• Dance/Electronic
• Hip Hop/Rap
• Jazz and Improvised Music
• Music Theatre/Stage  (workshop funding only)
• Popular Contemporary (two awards) - includes Pop, Rock, Alternative, Blues, Roots, Folk, Metal, Christian and Children's
• R&B/Soul
• Screen Composition (Film, TV, Games)
   

Karen Don, Head of Membership at APRA AMCOS, explains: “The Professional Development Awards provide songwriters and composers with a meaningful opportunity to develop their skills, broaden their experience and take their careers to the next level.

“As part of our ongoing commitment to supporting our members at every stage of their careers, these awards play a crucial role in helping them realise their ambitions, evolve their craft and strengthen the future of Australian music.”