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AIR Awards 2026: Dance Categories Get Major Overhaul
16 Feb
Summary
- AIR Awards 2026 nominations opened for releases from Jan. 1-Dec. 31, 2025.
- Dance and electronic categories are now more distinct for increased clarity.
- The ceremony returns to Adelaide Town Hall on July 30, 2026.
The 2026 Air Awards, celebrating its 20th anniversary, has opened nominations for eligible releases between January 1 and December 31, 2025. The ceremony will take place on July 30, 2026, at Adelaide Town Hall.
Key changes include a redefined approach to dance and electronic music categories. A new "Best Independent Dance/Club Single" will highlight club-focused tracks, while "Best Independent Electronic Single" will recognize electronic releases not primarily for club settings. The "Best Independent Dance or Electronica Album or EP" category is now renamed "Best Independent Electronic Album or EP."
These adjustments recognize the expanding international presence and streaming success of Australian independent electronic artists. The awards will feature 22 categories in total, including established honors like Independent Album of the Year. AIR will also host the Indie-Con Australia conference alongside A2IM's Indie Week Australian Edition from July 29-31.
