Ninajirachi Wins $80K NSW Music Prize for Debut Album

Ninajirachi, also known as Nina Wilson, triumphed at the second annual New South Wales Music Prize, an event held at Sydney's Museum of Contemporary Art. She received the top award of A$80,000 for her debut album, "I Love My Computer," released in 2025. The album's themes draw heavily from her experiences growing up on the Central Coast of New South Wales, with specific references to local places and travel.

Her win marks a significant achievement in her burgeoning career, adding to a series of accolades including multiple AIR Awards, ARIAs, and J Awards. The NSW Music Prize, launched by the Minns Labor government, aims to support and celebrate local musicians amidst increasing competition from international artists on streaming platforms. This initiative was established as NSW was the only state without a dedicated music prize until 2025.

In other categories, hip-hop collective 3% earned the 2026 NSW First Nations Music Prize of A$40,000 for their singles "These Days," "Running Through My Head," and "Our Greats." R&B artist BOY SODA was awarded NSW Breakthrough Artist of the Year, also receiving A$40,000. The prize pool totaled $160,000 across three categories, with judging panels selecting finalists for the awards.