Vote now for the QMAs People’s Choice Awards
The Queensland Music Awards are gearing up to celebrate their 20th anniversary, with the festivities set to take place at Brisbane’s Fortitude Music Hall on Wednesday, 22 April. The QMAs are a platform where the state’s best musicians, events, and venues are recognized and honored. A diverse range of musical genres, including blues, folk, pop, rock, jazz, hip-hop, country, and electronic music, are represented at the QMAs, and artists are selected by a panel of over 100 Australian and international music industry experts.
A unique aspect of the QMAs is the opportunity for the general public to participate in the voting process. The 2026 QMAs People’s Choice Awards are currently open for voting, allowing music enthusiasts to support their favorite festivals, venues, and events. Presented by The Music, fans can cast their votes across three competitive categories: Festival of the Year, Regional Venue of the Year, and Metro Venue of the Year. Voters are also automatically entered into a draw for a chance to win a VIP experience for two at this year’s Queensland Music Awards, which includes premium seating and exclusive access.
Kris Stewart, the CEO of QMusic, emphasized the importance of the QMAs in showcasing and supporting Queensland artists and the live music industry. He highlighted the QMAs’ role in recognizing the talent and dedication of emerging artists as well as established figures like Amy Shark, Keith Urban, and Thelma Plum. The People’s Choice Awards provide an opportunity for music fans to have their voices heard and contribute to celebrating Queensland’s diverse and thriving music scene.
The nominees for the 2026 QMA Festival of the Year include a variety of iconic events such as the Gympie Music Muster, The Ekka, and the Whitsundays Songwriter Festival. Regional Venue of the Year nominees feature popular establishments like Sandstone Point Hotel, Tanks Arts Centre, and Norton Music Factory. On the other hand, the Metro Venue of the Year category includes well-known venues such as Black Bear Lodge, The Princess Theatre, and The Tivoli.
With online voting currently open and closing on Friday, 30 January, music enthusiasts are encouraged to participate in the People’s Choice Awards and show their support for their favorite festivals and venues. The QMAs continue to be a significant event in Queensland’s music industry, providing a platform to showcase local talent and celebrate the vibrant and diverse music culture in the state.