Applications Open for APRA AMCOS’s 2026 PDAs

The virtual doors have swung open on APRA AMCOS’s 2026 Professional Development Awards (PDAs).

Now in its 15th year, the PDAs are a call out for songwriters and composers, with individual winners collecting $10,000 cash.

The funds, according to a statement issued by the rights society, are designed to help creatives with their professional development through attending workshops, music education courses, composer seminars, co-writing sessions and other relevant activities, either locally or internationally.

Previous winners have included Angie McMahon, Baker Boy, BARKAA, Elsy Wameyo, Gotye, Jem Cassar-Daley, Melanie Dyer, Ngaiire, Rebecca Bracewell, Samuel Marks and Yirrmal.

“Being recognised as a musician was so important and I am still so happy and humbled.”

Announced today, August 12th, the categories are: Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander General (two awards), Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Senior (all genres. Entrants must be over the age of 50), Country/Americana, Classical & Experimental, Dance/Electronic, Hip Hop/Rap, Jazz and Improvised Music, Music Theatre/Stage (workshop funding only), Contemporary (two awards — includes Pop, Rock, Alternative, Blues, Roots, Folk, Metal, Christian and Children’s) and R&B/Soul, Screen Composition (Film, TV, Games).

“The PDAs are a fantastic opportunity for songwriters and composers from all genres to gain support to develop their skills and take their craft to the next level,” comments Karen Don, Head of Membership at APRA AMCOS.

“The awards are part of our continued commitment to support members at every stage of their career, and they’ve helped give a leg up to the next generation of Australian artists for over 15 years now.”

Applications for the 2026 awards are open now and close at 5pm (AEST) on Tuesday, September 23rd.

Winners will be announced Thursday, February 12, 2026. Find out more and apply at apraamcos.com.au.