Applications Closing Soon For Toyota Star Maker 2026

If you've ever dreamed of making it big in Australian country music, now’s the time to throw your hat in the ring. Applications for the 2026 Toyota Star Maker, Australia’s most prestigious country music competition, are officially closing on Monday, 1 September 2025.

Now in its 46th year, Toyota Star Maker has helped launch the careers of some of the country’s most iconic artists, including Keith Urban, Lee Kernaghan, Kaylee Bell, Max Jackson, Travis Collins, Gina Jeffreys, Wade Forster, Samantha McClymont and Brad Cox. It’s more than just a title, it’s a launchpad.

The annual competition is open to solo artists over 18 who demonstrate the potential to build a successful career in country music. A panel of industry experts will select the Top 10 finalists, who’ll head to Tamworth to perform live at the Toyota Star Maker Final, held on the first Sunday of the Tamworth Country Music Festival 2026. In front of thousands of fans, one standout act will be crowned the next Star Maker winner.

What’s in the prize package?

The Toyota Star Maker prize, valued at over $100,000, is designed to kick-start a serious music career, and includes:

• Use of a fully-serviced Toyota vehicle for 12 months, plus a fuel card

• Return flights and 10 nights’ accommodation in Nashville for CMA Fest 2026

• Performance slots at CMA Fest, including the CMA Spotlight Stage and Sounds Australia events

• VIP access to concerts and events during the CMA Festival

• WIN Television media package worth $5,000

• Handmade Maton and Fender electric guitar

• Corral Boots (valued at $500)

• Hair and make-up styling for a year from Plush Hair Designs

• Recording and release of a four-track EP

• Two professional music videos

• 12-month media campaign in Country Music Capital News

• Representation by Wheelhouse Agency

• CMAA membership for a year

• Guaranteed paid performance slots at festivals including:

  • Gympie Music Muster

  • Deni Ute Muster

  • Groundwater Country Music Festival

  • Sunset Bash

  • Savannah in the Round

  • Queensland Music Trails

• Personalised industry guidance and mentoring

• And more industry perks, connections, and promo opportunities

With applications closing soon, now’s the moment for emerging artists to take a shot at something huge. Apply before September 1 via the official Toyota Star Maker website.