The National Indigenous Music Awards (NIMAs) has announced its 22nd edition, returning to Darwin Amphitheatre in Garamilla/Darwin on Saturday 8 August. Ahead of tickets going on sale this Friday, nominations are now open – calling for submissions from across the country to crown the most exciting and groundbreaking First Nations artists.
One of the most significant nights on the national music calendar, the NIMAs have long been an essential platform for celebrating, nurturing and elevating First Nations artistry and community. From respected veterans to the country’s new and emerging voices, the awards honour the full breadth of Indigenous music.
In 2026, the ceremony will once again bring together electrifying live performances, prestigious awards and powerful cultural conversation – all set against the stunning backdrop of Garramilla/Darwin. Recent alumni include last year’s Hall of Fame inductee Jessica Mauboy, powerhouses BARKAA and 3% justto name a few, a testament to the First Nations pioneers – past and present – the NIMAs continues to champion. The NIMAs take place amongst a week widely celebrating First Nations excellence, with Darwin Aboriginal Art Fair (DAAF), the National Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Art Awards (NATSIAA’s) and National Indigenous Fashion Awards (NIFA) also taking place between 5-11 August – making it the perfect excuse for interstate visitors to make a long weekend of it in the Top End.
Catherine Satour, Chairperson of MusicNT shares: “The National Indigenous Music Awards are a powerful celebration of First Nations music, culture and community. On behalf of MusicNT, we are proud to see the NIMAs return to Garramilla/Darwin in 2026, shining a national spotlight on the talent and leadership of Indigenous artists across the country.”
Nominations are now open across six categories – Artist of the Year, Best New Talent, Album of the Year, Film Clip of the Year, Community Clip of the Year and Song of the Year – and close on 19 June.
To nominate your favourite First Nations artists and releases from the past year, head to
nima-nominations.au.
Stay tuned for more NIMAs announcements to come, including a lineup that’s not to be missed.