In a major win for emerging Australian country artists, four-time GRAMMY Award winner Keith Urban has joined forces with the Tamworth Country Music Festival to launch the Keith Urban Rising Star Scholarship, a brand-new initiative set to provide one lucky artist with a once-in-a-lifetime Nashville experience.

Announced today, the scholarship is designed to unearth and accelerate the career of a promising new talent by providing them with an all-access pass to the heart of country music - Nashville, Tennessee. The package includes travel, accommodation, industry meetings, performance opportunities and perhaps most excitingly, two full days of recording at Urban’s own studio, The Sound, previously known as the iconic Tracking Room.

It’s a huge moment for the Tamworth Country Music Festival, who has long regarded as the home of Australian country music. Urban started his journey in country music busking on Peel Street and winning Tamworth’s Star Maker competition at just 22, setting him on a trajectory from local talent to international superstar. Now, he’s giving back to the scene that launched his own career.

“Sometimes all a musician needs is an opportunity to be heard or someone to help nurture their talent,” Urban said in a statement. “Having the opportunity to do that not only inspires me, I’m hoping that in some way this scholarship will serve to inspire others.”

The scholarship will be awarded annually, with applications opening in January 2026 and one recipient will be selected through an open online process facilitated by the Tamworth Country Music Festival team.

Peter Ross, Executive Manager of the festival, described the scholarship as an exciting next step in the evolution of Tamworth’s role in shaping the future of the genre. “Keith is the living embodiment of the Tamworth Festival pathway to success and together we want to help give other artists the opportunity to take Australian country music to the world.”

With Tamworth known for its ability to launch careers, whether through busking, open mic nights, talent quests, or the Golden Guitars, the scholarship adds a powerful new stepping stone for aspiring artists dreaming of global stages.

Urban, whose accolades include 13 CMA, 15 ACM, 6 ARIA and 15 Golden Guitar Awards, remains one of the most respected figures in global music. From playing packed stadiums to collaborating with the likes of Post Malone, Taylor Swift, P!nk and The Rolling Stones, his dedication to music and mentoring the next generation is unwavering.

The Keith Urban Rising Star Scholarship announcement comes as Urban returns to Australia for his HIGH AND ALIVE World Tour reminding fans and future stars alike that big dreams really can start in small towns.

Applications open January 2026 at www.tcmf.com.au/keith-urban-rising-star