
From artists working in remote communities to those gracing Australia’s biggest concert stages, the Australian Women in Music Awards (AWMA) celebrated women, non-binary, and gender non-conforming members of the Australian music community in Meanjin/Brisbane on October 9. The event highlighted the diverse contributions of these individuals to the industry, with a special focus on First Nations women.
This year’s ceremony introduced a new Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Cultural Legacy Award, recognizing the invaluable contributions of First Nations women to the music industry. The inaugural recipients were cultural songwomen from the Arrkula Yinbayarra (Together We Sing) project, alongside Dr. Shellie Morris AO. This project aims to preserve the languages of Borroloola in the Northern Territory’s Gulf region, underscoring the cultural significance of music as a tool for language and heritage preservation.
Spotlight on First Nations Women
The night was particularly poignant with the posthumous induction of Ruby Hunter into the AWMA Honour Roll. In 1994, Hunter became the first Aboriginal woman to sign with a major record label with her solo debut album, Thoughts Within. Her music played a crucial role in telling the stories of the Stolen Generation, and she served as a mentor to many First Nations musicians.
Yvette Scholtmeyer, speaking on Hunter’s legacy, emphasized her role as a trailblazer and role model for future generations. Dr. Shellie Morris, who also received the Lifetime Achievement and Artistic Excellence Awards, performed at the event, showcasing her enduring influence and artistic prowess.
Recognizing Artists Across Genres
The awards celebrated a wide range of musical genres, from indie-folk to opera. Donna Simpson and Vikki Thorn from The Waifs were honored with the Inspiration Award for their creative influence on younger artists. Missy Higgins, who accepted the Songwriter Award, expressed gratitude to the women who supported her journey, highlighting the collaborative spirit that defines the industry.
Grace Chia, a Chinese-Australian hip-hop/R&B artist, received the Diversity in Music Award for her genre-defying sound and contributions to cultural diversity. Internationally acclaimed soprano Nicole Car was awarded the Opera Impact Award, while composer Catherine Milliken took home the Excellence in Classical Music Award.
Celebrating Contributions Beyond Performance
Beyond performance, the awards recognized advocates, photographers, music journalists, filmmakers, producers, and leaders. Tina Broad received the Humanitarian Award for her efforts to create vibrant musical life in regional Australia through programs like Play for Life and SongMakers. Kimberley Galceran, music director of Dark Mofo, won the Creative Leadership Award for her bold and progressive programming.
Acknowledging Progress and Future Challenges
The ceremony was not only a celebration but also a reflection on the ongoing challenges within the industry. Vicki Gordon, founding executive producer and program director of AWMA, paid tribute to those who have fought for safety, opportunity, and creative freedom.
“We pay tribute to the many among us and those who have gone before us, who have fought for safety, for opportunity, for creative excellence and the freedom to express the deepest truths of ourselves,” said Vicki Gordon.
The awards ceremony was preceded by a one-day conference addressing issues still affecting women in Australian music. Discussions included the challenges faced by remote First Nations women, storytelling, cultural leadership, and the role of young female and gender-diverse creatives in shaping the future of music.
Hosted by broadcaster Yumi Stynes and soprano Nina Korbe, the event featured performances by artists like Aylish Ryan, Babyshakes Dillon, and Missy Higgins. In a tongue-in-cheek performance, Kate Miller-Heidke and the house band captured the evening’s spirit, blending humor with homage.
Winners and Finalists of the Australian Women in Music Awards 2025
- Executive Leader Award: WINNER: Nicole Richards
- Opera Impact Award: WINNER: Nicole Car
- Lifetime Achievement Award: WINNER: Dr. Shellie Morris AO
- Special Impact Award: WINNER: Kylie Thompson
- Humanitarian Award: WINNER: Tina Broad
- Diversity in Music Award: WINNER: Grace Chia
- Excellence in Classical Music Award: WINNER: Catherine Milliken
- Australian Women in Music Inspiration Award: WINNER: Donna Simpson and Vikki Thorn of The Waifs
- Women in Heavy Music Award: WINNER: Monica Strut
- Creative Leadership Award: WINNER: Kimberley Galceran
- Artistic Excellence Award: WINNER: Dr. Shellie Morris AO
- Songwriter Award: WINNER: Missy Higgins
- Emerging Artist Award: WINNER: Katia Geha
- Music Photographer Award: WINNER: Suzanne Phoenix
- Filmmaker Award: WINNER: Emily Dynes
The Australian Women in Music Awards continue to shine a light on the achievements and challenges of women in the music industry, celebrating their contributions while advocating for a more inclusive and supportive environment. As the industry evolves, these awards serve as a reminder of the power of music to unite, inspire, and drive change.