A Guide to Australian Indie Music Festivals
Australia boasts a thriving indie music scene, and at the heart of it are the numerous festivals that showcase both established and emerging talent. From sprawling multi-day events to intimate regional gatherings, these festivals offer a unique experience for music lovers and artists alike. This guide provides an overview of the Australian indie music festival landscape, offering insights into their vibe, location, and how to participate.
Major Indie Music Festivals in Australia
These festivals are well-established and attract significant crowds, often featuring a mix of international and Australian indie acts.
Laneway Festival: A touring festival that hits major cities across Australia (and beyond), Laneway is known for its carefully curated lineup of cutting-edge indie, electronic, and alternative artists. It's a must-attend for those looking to discover the next big thing.
Splendour in the Grass: While not exclusively indie, Splendour in the Grass consistently features a strong contingent of indie bands alongside other genres. Held in Byron Bay, NSW, it's one of Australia's largest and most iconic music festivals.
Falls Festival: Another major multi-genre festival with a significant indie presence, Falls Festival takes place over New Year's Eve in various locations, offering a festive atmosphere and a diverse lineup. They often feature a blend of international headliners and local Australian talent.
Groovin the Moo: This touring regional festival brings a mix of indie, hip-hop, and electronic music to smaller towns across Australia. It's a great opportunity to experience live music in a more relaxed and accessible setting.
St Jerome's Laneway Festival: As mentioned above, this festival is a staple in the Australian indie music calendar. You can learn more about Indiemusic and how we support artists playing at these events.
Regional Indie Music Festivals
Beyond the major city events, Australia is home to a wealth of smaller, regional indie music festivals that offer a more intimate and community-focused experience.
Meredith Music Festival (VIC): Known for its "no dickheads" policy and unique atmosphere, Meredith is a beloved festival that prioritises the music and the community. It features a diverse lineup of indie, electronic, and experimental artists.
Golden Plains (VIC): Organised by the same team behind Meredith, Golden Plains shares a similar ethos and offers a similar vibe, with a focus on quality music and a respectful audience.
Dark Mofo (TAS): While not strictly a music festival, Dark Mofo features a significant music programme with a focus on experimental, dark, and atmospheric sounds. It's a unique and immersive cultural experience.
Nannup Music Festival (WA): A free community-based festival held in the picturesque town of Nannup, this event showcases a wide range of folk, blues, and indie artists.
Red Deer Festival (QLD): Located near Brisbane, this boutique festival offers a relaxed atmosphere and a focus on Australian indie music. It's a great opportunity to discover emerging talent.
Finding More Regional Festivals
Websites like Indiemusic and community forums often list smaller, local festivals. Check local council websites and tourism boards for events in specific regions you're interested in.
Emerging Indie Music Festivals
These festivals are newer to the scene but are quickly gaining popularity for their focus on showcasing emerging indie talent and creating unique experiences.
Yours & Owls (NSW): Located in Wollongong, Yours & Owls has become a key platform for showcasing up-and-coming Australian indie bands. It's known for its vibrant atmosphere and diverse lineup.
BIGSOUND (QLD): While technically a music conference, BIGSOUND features hundreds of showcasing artists across multiple venues in Brisbane's Fortitude Valley. It's a crucial event for industry professionals and music lovers looking to discover the next generation of Australian indie stars. Our services can help artists prepare for events like BIGSOUND.
Strawberry Fields (NSW): This festival blends electronic music with live indie acts and art installations, creating a unique and immersive experience. It's known for its strong community and commitment to sustainability.
UNIFY Gathering (VIC): While leaning towards the heavier side of the indie spectrum, UNIFY Gathering provides a platform for alternative and punk-influenced indie bands to connect with a dedicated audience.
How to Get Involved as an Artist
Getting involved in the Australian indie music festival scene as an artist requires a combination of talent, hard work, and strategic networking.
Build a Strong Online Presence: Create a professional website and social media profiles showcasing your music, videos, and tour dates. Engage with your fans and build a community online.
Record High-Quality Music: Invest in recording and mixing your music to a professional standard. This will make a significant difference in how your music is perceived by festival bookers.
Apply to Play: Most festivals have an application process for artists to submit their music and information. Research the festivals that align with your genre and target audience and submit a compelling application.
Network with Industry Professionals: Attend music conferences like BIGSOUND and meet with festival bookers, promoters, and other industry professionals. Building relationships is crucial for getting your music heard.
Play Local Shows: Gain experience playing live shows in your local area. This will help you hone your performance skills and build a following.
Consider Management/Publicity: As your career progresses, consider working with a manager or publicist to help you navigate the industry and secure festival bookings. You can check frequently asked questions to learn more about these roles.
Festival Culture and Community
Australian indie music festivals are more than just music events; they are vibrant communities that celebrate creativity, diversity, and connection. They offer a space for people to come together, share experiences, and discover new music.
Emphasis on Emerging Talent: Many festivals prioritise showcasing emerging Australian artists, providing them with a platform to reach new audiences and build their careers.
Community Focus: Festivals often foster a strong sense of community, with attendees forming lasting friendships and connections.
Environmental Awareness: Many festivals are committed to sustainability and reducing their environmental impact. They often implement initiatives such as recycling programmes, composting, and renewable energy sources.
Art and Culture: In addition to music, many festivals feature art installations, workshops, and other cultural activities, creating a multi-sensory experience.
The Australian indie music festival scene is a dynamic and evolving landscape that offers something for everyone. Whether you're a music lover looking to discover new artists or an artist looking to break into the industry, these festivals provide a unique and rewarding experience.