LISTEN UP MUSIC
The minds in music matter
Listen Up Music is an award-winning mental health music charity that believes in making a real difference.
We go beyond just raising awareness, focusing on constructive, impactful, and life-altering change. Our vision is to empower every music industry professional to develop and maintain positive mental health.
Through our events and programs, we build community, facilitate storytelling, and promote wellbeing. We’re home to The Songwriting Prize, Illuminate, Spotlight Series, the Pick-Me-Up Podcast, and other initiatives.
Everything is dedicated to the notion that the minds in music matter. Join us and be a part of the change.
What We Do
The Songwriting Prize
Australia’s largest live performance songwriting competition.
Our flagship annual initiative inviting creators to write, submit, and perform original songs that spark meaningful conversations, break down barriers, champion mental wellness, and inspire tangible social change across communities.
Community & Programs
Country-wide network of grass-roots mental health arts initiatives.
Interactive programs and workshops bringing artists and communities together to connect, collaborate, and thrive. We equip creators with practical tools, nurture local talent, and turn shared passion into lasting social impact.
Historical Vault
Over a decade of music, podcasts, and performance archives.
A dedicated digital showcase honoring eleven years of original songs, live events, and artist stories. Explore past competition entries, revisit podcast episodes, and experience the music that has powered our movement since 2014.
The Songwriting Prize
The Songwriting Prize 2026: Regional Finals Underway
Entries for 2026 are now closed, and the competition has moved live to the stage! With our first event wrapped, 9 upcoming Regional Finals are set to take place across Australia in August and September. Join us live to support local music creators performing original songs centered on this year's theme, “The Next Chapter.”
Help Us Power Mental Health Action
Through Music
Listen Up Music is powered by a community of passionate artists, supporters, and advocates. Whether you become a member or make a tax-deductible donation, your support directly funds grassroots programs, songwriting initiatives, and community events nationwide.
Upcoming Events
July 24th: The Songwriting Prize - Perth Final
August 7th: The Songwriting Prize - Newcastle Final
August 12th: The Songwriting Prize - Hobart Final
August 26th: The Songwriting Prize - Brisbane Final
August 27th: The Songwriting Prize - Gold Coast Final
September 4th: The Songwriting Prize - Bendigo Final
September 5th: The Songwriting Prize - Melbourne Final
September 16th: The Songwriting Prize - Canberra Final
September 19th: The Songwriting Prize - Adelaide Final
September 26th: The Songwriting Prize - Sydney Final
The Sound of Our Community
Dive into original tracks written by The Songwriting Prize alumni and story-driven episodes from our official podcast.
Explore how music drives real conversation and connection.
Frequently Asked Questions
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Listen Up Music is an award-winning, registered Australian mental health music charity. We go beyond awareness-raising to drive meaningful, positive change in the music industry by building supportive communities, promoting positive mental health, and facilitating storytelling through music.
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We host live events, educational programs, and community initiatives—such as The Songwriting Prize, Illuminate, the Spotlight Series, and the Pick-Me-Up Podcast—that foster safe, vulnerable spaces for musicians to share their experiences and connect.
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Yes! Listen Up Music is a registered charity with Deductible Gift Recipient (DGR) status in Australia. All donations of $2 or more are tax-deductible.
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You can support us by making a tax-deductible donation, attending our live events, buying merchandise, volunteering, or partnering with us as a sponsor.
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The Songwriting Prize is Australia’s largest live performance songwriting competition focusing on mental health. Each year, songwriters respond to a specific theme to share stories and compete across regional live finals.