First Sounds is back in 2025, with a new partnership and more music. The Community Broadcasting Association of Australia (CBAA) and Gadigal Information Service / Koori Radio (GIS) have collaborated to continue to amplify First Nations voices, songs and stories to community radio listeners across the country.

First Sounds has offered First Nations musicians nationwide exposure via 10 CD compilations and digital releases since 2020. Now, the relaunched initiative will have two curated compilations of emerging First Nations talent in 2025. These compilations, featuring selections by a panel of First Nations industry figures, will be released over a six-month period on amrap.org.au, mailed to community broadcasters, and promoted through dedicated marketing campaigns.

Boox Kid (real name Jarred Wall) a previous First Sounds artist said of the experience:

‘It was a real privilege being involved in a number of the First Sounds compilations. There’s an abundance of talented mob out there and to have a platform where audiences from all demographic can access and engage is fantastic. It’s allowed my music to be delivered to regional and remote areas and audiences. I can’t stress enough how important initiatives like this are for mob within the industry to amplify our voices.’

First Nations artists from anywhere in the country can submit their details and radio-ready songs here: https://firstsounds.awardsplatform.com/