Like many states, Queensland has its own awards ceremonies celebrating the performing arts talents of those individuals and companies local to the state. For theatre, that is the Matilda Awards, with their 2025 ceremony on 2 March 2026 set to serve as its 38th annual event. Their next ceremony is set to come with a change however, as following a period of time at the Brisbane Powerhouse, it is set to take place at the Queensland Performing Arts Centre (QPAC).
According to the announcement, this relocation marks a shift in direction for the awards, which aim to elevate their profile within the state capital while maintaining a strong focus on regional artists. The move is supported by renewed multi-year funding from Arts Queensland and confirmed backing from the Brisbane City Council.
Nigel Lavender, Chair of the Matilda Awards, acknowledged the contributions of the previous host venue, the Brisbane Powerhouse, and expressed optimism regarding the new funding and venue arrangements:
It’s a privilege to lead the Matildas at such an exciting time. We thank Brisbane Powerhouse for their valued hosting in recent years and previous committee members’ service. Our renewed funding support and QPAC partnership ensures Queensland’s theatre-makers will continue to be celebrated, receiving the recognition they so richly deserve.
Minister for Education and the Arts, the Hon. John-Paul Langbroek MP, highlighted that utilizing the state’s premier performing arts venue is an acknowledgement of the awards’ long-standing contribution to the cultural sector:
For nearly four decades, the Matilda Awards have celebrated the exceptional talent that defines Queensland’s theatre community. This next chapter ensures artists across the state, from Cairns to the Gold Coast, are recognised, supported and celebrated on Queensland’s biggest stage.
Brisbane Lord Mayor Adrian Schrinner welcomed the announcement, emphasising the role the awards play in fostering the local creative economy and career development for performers:
The Matildas have lifted Queensland artists onto a bigger stage for decades, helping local talent thrive and inspiring new generations of performers. These awards are a launchpad for careers and a celebration of the creativity that drives Brisbane’s cultural heartbeat. We’re proud to support an event that champions storytellers, creates jobs and builds the cultural momentum that confirms Brisbane is Australia’s lifestyle capital.
The partnership with QPAC is set to continue beyond the upcoming ceremony, with the venue confirmed to host the event for the next four years. Rachel Healy, Chief Executive of QPAC, noted that this arrangement aligns with the centre’s commitment to supporting creators throughout Queensland:
QPAC is dedicated to supporting artists and storytellers from every corner of the state. Hosting the Matilda Awards for the next four years strengthens our connection with theatre-makers statewide and celebrates excellence in the very heart of Queensland’s performing arts.
Nominees for the 2025 Matilda Awards are expected to be announced in early January 2026. Tickets for the ceremony on 2 March 2026 will go on sale shortly after the nominations are revealed.
