APRA Music Awards 2026: Western Australian Artists Shine in Major Nominations for Centenary Event
The 2026 APRA Music Awards are set to light up Sydney with a strong Western Australian presence, as Tame Impala's Kevin Parker, Spacey Jane, and Old Mervs lead the nominations for this prestigious ceremony. This year marks the centenary edition of the awards, founded in 1926 to ensure fair compensation for music creators, and promises to be the biggest celebration yet.
Kevin Parker's 'Loser' Contends for Song of the Year
Kevin Parker of Tame Impala is in the running for the coveted Peer-Voted APRA Song of the Year with his track 'Loser' from the 2025 album Deadbeat. The song faces stiff competition from notable contenders including Keli Holiday's Dancing2, Ninajirachi's iPod Touch, Amyl and The Sniffers' Jerkin', and Paul Kelly's Rita Wrote A Letter. This nomination highlights Parker's continued influence in the music industry, following his success last year with two awards for Dua Lipa's Houdini, which he co-wrote with international collaborators.
Spacey Jane and Old Mervs Represent WA in Genre Categories
Spacey Jane, the beloved WA quartet, has been nominated for the Most Performed Alternative Work award with their single 'All the Noise'. This track, the first release from their new album If That Makes Sense, offers fans a glimpse into the band's evolving sound. They are up against other standout songs such as Royel Otis' Car, Keli Holiday's Dancing2, Mallrat's Hideaway, and Ball Park Music's Please Don't Move to Melbourne.
Meanwhile, emerging from Kojonup, the country duo Old Mervs are hoping to clinch the Most Performed Rock Work award for their song 'Everyone Will See It'. They compete against heavyweights like Jimmy Barnes' Defiant, Amyl and The Sniffers' Jerkin, King Stingray's Southerly, and Ocean Alley's Tangerine, showcasing the diverse talent in Australian rock music.
Other Notable Nominees and Ceremony Highlights
The awards feature a range of other impressive nominees, including Hilltop Hoods featuring Marlon for The Gift in the Most Performed Hip Hop/Rap Work category, and Sia with David Guetta for Beautiful People in Most Performed Electronic/Dance Work. Sia, as the most awarded member in APRA history, adds star power to the event.
Hosted by presenter Julia Zemiro, with guest presenters Bernard Fanning, Jessica Mauboy, Mark Coles Smith, and Stella Donnelly, the ceremony will take place on April 29 at Sydney's Hordern Pavilion. A key highlight will be the presentation of the Ted Albert Award for Outstanding Services to Australian Music, to be announced on April 14, honoring significant contributions to the industry.
Celebrating a Century of Musical Excellence
The APRA Music Awards celebrate excellence in contemporary music, recognizing songwriters and publishers for their artistic achievements and commercial success. This centenary edition builds on a rich history that began with the first awards in 1982, hosted by Little River Band's Glenn Shorrock. With Western Australian artists prominently featured, the 2026 awards underscore the vibrant and enduring impact of Australia's music scene, promising an unforgettable night in Sydney.
