BIGSOUND 2025 Wrap Up: Highlights, Breakthrough Acts and Industry Takeaways from Australia’s Biggest Music Conference

BIGSOUND 2025 has officially wrapped, cementing its reputation as the Southern Hemisphere’s largest and most influential music industry gathering. From 2–5 September, Brisbane’s Fortitude Valley came alive with four days of showcases, panels and networking that connected artists, fans and industry from around the world.

This year’s event saw more than 4,200 attendees, including 1,700 delegates, across 500 events and 18 stages, while up to 10,000 fans filled the free, all-ages stages at Brunswick St Mall and Goolwal Garden daily. With 130 bands and 138 speakers on the program, BIGSOUND once again proved itself as a launchpad for the future of Australian music.

READ MORE: Sydney’s Reverse Revolution Impress With Debut EP Bonjour Aliens

Highlights included keynote addresses from BRIGGS, Mallrat and Tash Sultana, plus international heavyweights like Blur drummer Dave Rowntree and British music executive Darcus Beese OBE. First Nations voices were spotlighted through Goolwal Goolwal, while Bad Apples Music marked their 10-year anniversary with a keynote and powerful showcases led by Briggs’ hardcore punk project, BIG NOTER.

Breakthrough buzz surrounded acts including Cheeky Leash, BVT, SPIKE F*CK, The Southern River Band, and There’s A Tuesday. Meanwhile, the return of triple j Unearthed’s stage and surprise performances from artists like Mansionair kept energy levels high throughout the week.

BIGSOUND also delivered for the wider industry, hosting more than 750 tailored meetings that connected emerging artists with influential global delegates.

With BIGSOUND 2026 confirmed for 1–4 September, this year’s edition reinforced why the event remains a cornerstone of Australia’s music calendar and a crucial driver of the nation’s global music export success.

AAA Backstage was on the ground capturing exclusive video interviews with some of the standout artists, including Seb Szabo, GLVES, Chloe Styler, Letters To Lions and more. Those interviews are now live on our YouTube channel, with more rolling out over the coming week — so be sure to subscribe to catch every conversation.