Applications are now open for the 2027 Joblink Plus Artist Bursary Program, which will support artists performing at the Toyota 55th Tamworth Country Music Festival.
The program provides practical financial support to artists staying at least three days at the festival, helping cover travel and accommodation costs so they can make the most of the event.
Joblink Plus will fund 25 bursaries worth $1,000 each, including five dedicated to First Nations artists.
The not-for-profit organisation exists to connect people with meaningful employment and opportunities to pursue their passions. The Artist Bursary Program reflects that purpose by helping emerging artists gain the skills, experience and industry connections needed to build sustainable careers in music.
“Joblink Plus exists to help people discover opportunities, build confidence and pursue meaningful futures. While that often means supporting people into employment, it also means backing individuals who are striving to build careers in creative industries.” said Joblink Plus CEO Emily Roy.
“The Artist Bursary Program is about investing in potential. Talented artists need platforms, networks and real-world experience to develop their craft, and there is no better place to do that than the Tamworth Country Music Festival.
“We’re proud to support a program that not only helps emerging artists take the next step in their journey but also contributes to the economic vitality of our region. The Festival brings thousands of visitors to Tamworth each year, creating opportunities for local businesses and strengthening our position as Australia’s country music capital. Supporting artists and supporting regional growth go hand in hand.”
The bursary program was introduced for the 2026 festival following feedback from the Tamworth Country Music Advisory Group about the financial barriers many artists face in attending the festival. It was developed to help remove those barriers and increase participation.
“The success of the inaugural program highlights the Festival’s ongoing commitment to nurturing emerging talent and ensuring Tamworth remains a launchpad for the next generation of country music artists.” said Festival Executive Producer Peter Ross.
Recipients of the inaugural bursaries travelled from across Australia, including South East Queensland singer-songwriter Jessica Holbrok, who won the Toyota Best of the Buskers Championships during the 2026 festival.
“Without the bursary, I wouldn’t have been able to make it down to the Festival this year. I wouldn’t have been able to busk on iconic Peel Street and I wouldn’t have been able to have the opportunity to win the Best of the Buskers.
“Being able to be at the Festival allowed me to experience so many things and gave me so many opportunities that I wouldn’t have had if I didn’t go.”
The festival is also inviting businesses to sponsor additional bursaries to increase the number of artists who can be supported.
Donations are fully tax deductible. Sponsors will receive brand recognition across festival signage, the Tamworth Country Music Festival website, social media channels and recipient artists’ channels, as well as on the presentation cheque. Sponsors will also receive branding and promotional opportunities at the Joblink Plus Fringe Zone stage during their recipient’s performance and will be invited to an official media event and photo opportunity when the bursaries are presented.
Businesses and artists can find out more about the program at https://www.tcmf.com.au/joblink-plus-artist-bursary.
Applications close at 5pm on Tuesday, 1 September 2026.
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