QMusic CEO Kristy Ellis. Photo: QMusic.
Queensland’s peak music industry body is reducing staff and moving to a leaner operating model as its funding mix changes.
Updated September 2026
QMusic, the organisation behind BIGSOUND and the Queensland Music Awards, is restructuring its operations and reducing staff as it adjusts to changes in arts funding.
The move follows the end of a four-year, $3.84 million government funding initiative in 2025–26, according to reporting by The Courier-Mail. QMusic has separately secured $495,000 a year through Arts Queensland’s Organisations Fund from 2026 to 2029, as well as $700,000 in Queensland Government support for BIGSOUND across 2027 and 2028.
QMusic moves to a leaner model
Chief executive Kristy Ellis has described the restructure as part of a move towards a leaner operating model intended to support QMusic’s long-term sustainability.
Ellis was confirmed as QMusic’s permanent CEO in April 2026 after serving as interim chief executive. At the time, QMusic said she would lead the organisation through its next phase while continuing programs including Industry Connect, Concert Care, BIGSOUND and the Queensland Music Awards.
QMusic remains Queensland’s peak body for contemporary music industry development, with programs spanning artist development, industry networking, events and regional support across the state.
BIGSOUND remains a major part of QMusic’s work
QMusic’s 2025 annual report described BIGSOUND as one of the organisation’s biggest pieces of cultural infrastructure. An independent economic impact study cited in the report found the 2025 event generated $20.15 million in economic activity, supported 269 jobs and returned $10.85 in community value for every $1 of public investment.
The same annual report said QMusic had secured an extension of its core funding through to 2029 and had also been appointed to deliver music-specific support through Queensland’s Regional Arts Services Network.
What changes for Queensland artists?
The immediate question for the sector is what the restructure means for QMusic’s programs, staffing and services across Queensland, including support outside Brisbane.
Read more Queensland music industry news and opportunities through YELO’s Queensland Music Grants & Opportunities guide.
