It might be a song, a podcast, a radio broadcast, a speech, a sporting moment, a field recording, a movie or TV score, or something else entirely.

The National Film and Sound Archive (NFSA)‘s Sounds of Australia is a collection of recordings that have shaped our nation. It includes moments that spark conversation, mark milestones, and preserve history, sound by sound.

This year, recordings from 2016 and earlier are eligible for nomination. That year saw a tightly contested Federal Election, and the first double-dissolution since 1987. The Cronulla Sharks won their first (and so far only) NRL Premiership and the Western Bulldogs broke a 62-year drought by winning the AFL Grand Final.

Music wise Adele said Hello after a lengthy musical hiatus, the Chainsmokers and Halsey brought us Closer and Aussie DJ and producer Flume topped the triple j Hottest 100 with Never Be Like You (featuring Kai). It was the biggest year of Australian tracks on record for that countdown with 66 and a top ten featuring Peking Duk, Amy Shark, Hilltop Hoods, Illy, Tash Sultana and more who have grown to become established stars globally.

If you need inspiration, previous Sounds of Australia selections have included everything from community radio broadcasts and advertising jingles to Indigenous language recordings, political speeches and rare wildlife calls.

You can nominate here. Nominations close July 31 2026.