Matilda Awards waltz over to new home at QPAC
The Matilda Awards have long celebrated the exceptional talent that defines Queensland’s theatre community – and now they have a new home.
In television they have the Logies while Queensland’s theatre world has the Matildas – and now the awards have a new home.
For years the Matilda Awards – usually a long night – has been held at Brisbane Powerhouse. But the state’s performing arts honours are about to step into an exciting new chapter with a refreshed direction and a major move to QPAC for the 38th annual event on March 2.
This milestone signals the Matilda Awards’ continued growth, reputation and statewide reach, supported by (and this is the good part) renewed multi-year funding from Arts Queensland and confirmed backing from Brisbane City Council, paving the way for a vibrant new era.
The refreshed direction elevates the Matildas’ profile in Queensland’s capital and will shine a stronger spotlight on regional artists whose creativity fuels the state’s performing arts scene.
State Arts Minister John-Paul Langbroek says the move to Queensland’s premier performing arts venue recognises the Matildas’ enduring contribution to our cultural landscape.
“For (almost) four decades the Matilda Awards have celebrated the exceptional talent that defines Queensland’s theatre community,” says Langbroek. “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, noting the awards’ key role in celebrating and strengthening the city’s creative sector.
“The Matildas have lifted Queensland artists onto a bigger stage for decades, helping local talent thrive and inspiring new generations of performers,” says Schrinner. “These awards are a launch pad 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.”
QPAC chief executive Rachel Healy says the partnership reinforces QPAC’s commitment to Queensland’s creative sector.
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“QPAC is dedicated to supporting artists and storytellers from every corner of the state,” says Healy. “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.”
Matilda Awards chair Nigel Lavender says the relaunch reflects years of collaboration and the solid foundation built by past executives.
“It’s a privilege to lead the Matildas at such an exciting time,” he says. “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.”
Nominees for the 2025 Matilda Awards will be announced this month, with tickets for the 2026 awards ceremony on sale immediately following.
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