Who won the first NSW Music prize?

The Sydney hardcore band Speed won the inaugural $80,000 NSW Music prize.

What is the purpose of the NSW Music prize?

The prize aims to support local NSW musicians against increased competition from international artists on streaming platforms.

Which other artists won at the NSW Music Awards?

Ninajirachi won the breakthrough artist award, and Barkaa won the First Nations music category.

Home / Arts and Entertainment / Sydney Band Speed Wins Big State Music Prize

Sydney Band Speed Wins Big State Music Prize

24 Nov, 2025

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Summary

Hardcore band Speed received the inaugural $80,000 NSW Music prize.
The award supports local musicians against international streaming competition.
Ninajirachi and Barkaa also secured significant prize money in other categories.

Sydney Band Speed Wins Big State Music Prize

The inaugural $80,000 NSW Music prize has been awarded to Sydney hardcore band Speed, recognizing their debut album 'Only One Mode'. This significant award was established by the NSW government to bolster local musicians against the dominance of international artists on streaming services, which often favor overseas acts due to algorithmic promotion.

Speed, known for their socially conscious lyrics addressing male suicide and anti-Asian racism, expressed gratitude, viewing the award as an acknowledgment of the values within their community. They emphasized that the win belongs to the broader scene and vowed to reinvest the prize money to foster its growth. This marks a significant moment for Australian hardcore music.

Other notable recipients included electronic DJ Ninajirachi, who won the $40,000 breakthrough artist category, and Malyangapa Barkindji rapper Barkaa, who secured the $40,000 First Nations music prize. The NSW Music prize, with its $160,000 total prize pool, is the largest of its kind in Australia, aiming to nurture and promote homegrown talent.