about us
Bush Bands Business 2025
(Invite Only Artist Music Development Program)
10–13 September
Bush Bands Bash Concert
Date: Sunday 14th September 2025
Time: 4pm–10pm
Venue: Alice Springs Telegraph Station, Herbert Heritage Dr
Now in its 21st year, Bush Bands is fast becoming the premier music development program for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander bands and artists from remote locations across Australia. From humble beginnings as a space for Indigenous bands from the bush to play in Mparntwe/Alice Springs, Bush Bands now attracts applications from all over remote NT, SA, WA and QLD.
Several of last year’s Bush Bands acts have achieved amazing feats over the past nine months: Family Shoveller Band (Bidyadanga, WA) went on to play in Rome, Italy; Desert Melody Makers (Yuendumu, NT) performed at Dark Mofo in Tasmania, Drifting Clouds (Gapuwiyak, NT) won the triple j Unearthed competition to perform at the National Indigenous Music Awards; and BOUSTA (Mparntwe, NT) just performed at the Scouted showcase in Adelaide.
These are just a few of the career highs achieved by Bush Bands 2024 alumni, who all participated in the intensive four-day development program, Bush Bands Business prior to performing to an audience of over 3000. The program sees all performing acts meet on Arrernte Country at Ross River Resort to take part in information and development workshops from key industry professionals. Paired with music mentors, they receive coaching in vocals, performance, stagecraft, and equipment – ultimately developing their best possible set for the showcase concert, Bush Bands Bash.
This year’s applications saw a record number of female-identifying artists applying, and three female artists on the lineup. Darwin-based artist Jessica L.A. performed at Bush Bands 2024 after applying through MusicNT’s Divas program, and is excited to see more women go through the program and take the stage this year.
“It’s such a unique opportunity, you will meet so many people, learn so much industry knowledge and develop your authentic sound and style. It’s very challenging and rewarding, so go get it gorgeous sisters!” – Jessica L.A.
Participants also attend sessions on the legal aspects of the music industry, like contracts, copyright and royalties, as well as PR and media. Each act gets one-on-one support to help develop their artist bios and online presence, make sure their artistic works are registered, and give them the knowledge and confidence to put their act out there.
This year’s Bush Bands Bash promises to be another unforgettable experience for music lovers of all backgrounds and ages, uniting communities in a smoke, vape and alcohol-free, family-friendly setting. Join us for an unforgettable night of music, language and culture, at Bush Bands Bash 2025!
