Sounds Australia, in partnership with the Australian Consulate General to Mumbai, is proud to announce an exciting opportunity designed to see the Australian music industry deepen cultural and commercial ties with the Indian music market.
Expressions of interest are now open for Association of Artist Managers (AAM) members to apply to be part of a select delegation of Australian artist managers attending India International Music Week (IIMW) in Mumbai in February 2026. IIMW is a global music conference and showcase festival bringing together artists, industry leaders and stakeholders from around the world.
The program sees Sounds Australia building on previous engagement in the region, having showcased Australian artists in Bangalore, Delhi, Kolkata, Mumbai and Pune from 2012-2014, including The Aston Shuffle, Big Scary, Cloud Control, Karnivool, Kate Miller-Heidke, Peking Duk, Sampology and Sheppard. Sounds Australia has also led industry delegations to NH7 Weekender, Nokia Music Connects and All About Music, as well as an inbound exchange into Australia over SXSW Sydney in 2024.
Esti Zilber, Executive Producer for Sounds Australia states, “Sounds Australia is excited to return to India, bringing a targeted approach that draws on our track record of connecting Australian artists with audiences and opportunities worldwide. By deepening relationships with trusted industry partners and key players in the territory, we’re expanding networks that drive impactful outcomes, create lasting opportunities, and position Australian talent within one of the world’s most dynamic music markets.”
The upcoming IIMW program will feature tailored networking, curated panels, strategic meetings and public-facing events, including a spotlight on Australia in the official IIMW program, all aimed at showcasing Australian talent and expertise on the global stage.
Previous speakers and participants include Spotify India, Believe Music, Warner Music India, Sony Music Entertainment, Universal Music Publishing, Amazon Studios, Netflix India, Times Music, PRS India, Skillbox, and festival programmers, venue owners and export offices from over 30 countries.
The Australian Consul-General in Western India Paul Murphy said, “Over the last year, we have seen an increasing number of Australian artists and industry leaders making their mark in India’s vibrant music scene. India’s dynamic music market offers vast opportunities for collaboration with their Australian counterparts. With a strong and globally respected music industry, Australia is well positioned to foster creative partnerships and cultural exchange. To build on this momentum, we are delighted to support an Australian presence at India International Music Week 2026. This engagement will be a powerful platform to showcase the Australian music ecosystem, build networks and explore bilateral opportunities.”
Victoria’s music industry is set to forge powerful connections with India as well thanks to the Victorian Music Development Office (VMDO). Expressions of interest are now open for two Victorian music industry professionals (excluding managers) to receive an AU$2,000 contribution to participate at IIMW 2026. Creating direct pathways for collaboration and market access, this initiative will enable Victorian businesses to share expertise, build enduring partnerships, and unlock new opportunities across two vibrant global music communities.
Kirsty Rivers, General Manager, VMDO said, “The VMDO is delighted to provide additional support for Sounds Australia’s delegation to IIMW and look forward to supporting two Victorian professionals in attending. Indian languages are the fastest-growing languages other than English spoken in Victorian homes, and looking to India is not only an opportunity to find out more about the export market, it is a chance to build on our shared cultural connections here in Victoria.”
AAM Members: Apply here
Victorian Music Industry Professionals: Apply here
Applications close Wednesday 10 December 2025