Expressions of interest open for new GCMA judges

Ever wondered what it takes to be a judge for the Gold Coast Music Awards?

For the first time in the Gold Coast Music Awards’ 10-year history, we’re calling for expressions of interest for new judges to join the 2024 GCMA judging panel.

The Gold Coast Music Awards will celebrate its 10th anniversary in 2024 and the Gold Coast Music Network is looking to diversify and add to the expertise of the judging panel.

Organisers are looking for new judges to join the panel which currently comprises 18 people representing bookers, managers, venues, local government, peak bodies, artists and broadcasters. You can see our 2023 Judging Panel here.

Expressions of interest are open to anyone who feels they can add value to the judging panel. Nominations are especially encouraged from high calibre musicians, visual creatives, First Nations people, those aged under 25 or over 60 and those with outstanding knowledge of Gold Coast music. Judges who understand the importance of diversity in music are encouraged to apply.

Judging is no easy task. Judges receive reams of documents that must be read and more than 25 hours of music and videos that must be listened to or watched before their short-lists are submitted for collation. After that judges meet face-to-face to discuss shortlists and determine finalists and winners.

This year for the first time, judges will be assigned specific categories to judge. In your application, you will be asked to nominate at least two categories you feel best qualified to assess. All judges are asked to assess the Song of the Year category and the Gold Coast Music Prize.

GCMA judges receive early access to the very best unsigned, emerging talent from the Gold Coast as well as VIP access to the Gold Coast Music Awards event and a profile on the Gold Coast Music Network website. Judges are also invited to join the Gold Coast Music Network advisory panel which meets annually to steer the strategic direction of the organisation and its initiatives including the Awards event, categories and criteria for judging.

Applications will first be assessed by the Gold Coast Music Network team before a shortlist is provided to existing judges. The GCMN team will then work with judges to prioritise short-listed applications.

Expressions of Interest close on COB Monday 29 January and all applicants will be contacted no later than Friday 1 March with the outcome of their EOI.

REGISTER YOUR INTEREST HERE >>

If you have any questions about the judging process, requirements or any other questions related to the application, please get in touch at hello@gcmusicnetwork.com.au.

TALENT ON TAP: MAY ’25

TALENT ON TAP // NEW MUSIC FOR MAY BROUGHT TO YOU BY BURLEIGH BREWING CO. Words by Emily Halloran Cover image Kate Rubi From debut albums and genre-defying new singles to cinematic alt-pop anthems, our May edition of Talent On Tap is stacked with local releases you’ll...

Music Industry Mingle: Access All Areas

Music Industry Mingle: Access All Areas | Wed 21 May, 5.30-8.30pm, Den Devine Broadbeach

Sounds Like Gold | FREE Music Festival, June 1

Sounds Like Gold | Free music festival – June 1, HOTA Outdoor Stage

TALENT ON TAP: APRIL ’25

TALENT ON TAP // NEW MUSIC FOR APRIL BROUGHT TO YOU BY BURLEIGH BREWING CO. Words by Emily Halloran There’s no shortage of new music coming out of the Gold Coast, and this April boasts a couple of debut albums and fresh singles you need to hear. This month’s round-up...

Wildheart Win Heavy Award for The Darkest Path, Amy Shark Claims Two Wins at Queensland Music Awards

Gold Coast heavy-hitters Wildheart took home the Heavy Award at the Queensland Music Awards for their powerful track The Darkest Path. Known for their fierce energy and socially conscious lyrics, the band’s win highlights their impact on Australia’s heavy music scene.

Save the Date: 2025 Gold Coast Music Awards

Join us Thursday 27 November 2025 at HOTA, Home of the Arts, for the biggest night in Gold Coast music

Talent On Tap: March ’25

TALENT ON TAP // NEW MUSIC FOR MARCH BROUGHT TO YOU BY BURLEIGH BREWING CO. Words by Emily Halloran From moody alt-rock to high-energy electronic beats, this month’s lineup is stacked with standout releases that deserve a spot on your playlist. From nostalgic country...

EXPERIENCE GOLD COAST – Arts Fund

EOI close 30 April 2025

MUSIC AUSTRALIA – International Market and Audience Development

Applications close Tuesday 1 April 2025

MUSIC AUSTRALIA – International Performance and Touring Activity

Applications close Tuesday 1 April 2025