Australia’s next country music star could soon be discovered, with entries officially opening for the 47th Toyota Star Maker competition ahead of the 2027 Tamworth Country Music Festival.
Widely regarded as Australia’s most prestigious country music talent search, Toyota Star Maker has launched the careers of some of the nation’s biggest country artists over the past four decades, including Keith Urban, Lee Kernaghan, James Blundell, Beccy Cole, Gina Jeffreys, Travis Collins and more recently Brad Cox, Kaylee Bell and Max Jackson.
The 2027 winner will be crowned during the 55th Toyota Tamworth Country Music Festival in January and will receive a prize package valued at more than $100,000.
The winning artist will secure a fully serviced Toyota vehicle and fuel card for the duration of their reign, a professionally produced four-track EP, a return trip to Nashville, instruments from Maton and Fender, festival performance opportunities and artist representation through Wheelhouse Agency.
Current Toyota Star Maker titleholder Jarrad Wrigley was crowned earlier this year during the 2026 festival and is already experiencing the opportunities that come with the title.
Wrigley is currently in the US, heading to Nashville after a couple of days in Texas, attending the CMA Fest and performing on the CMA Spotlight Stage as well as at Sounds Australia events.
Speaking after his Toyota Star Maker victory in January, Wrigley described the title as one of the biggest honours in Australian music.
“I seriously do believe that holding the title of Toyota Star Maker is just the most prestigious achievement that you can gain in country music, but potentially the whole Australian music industry,” he said.
“To be crowned champion for that is just unbelievable.”
Aspiring country artists from across Australia are now encouraged to submit entries for the 2027 competition, with applications closing on September 1. Head to https://starmaker.com.au/ to find out the details and review the fine print.
The top 10 finalists will be announced in November before competing live at the Toyota Star Maker Grand Final in Toyota Park on January 17 during the 2027 Tamworth Country Music Festival.
Like what you’re reading? Support New England Times by making a small contribution today and help us keep delivering local news paywall-free. Donate now