In celebration of 100 years of the Australasian Performing Right Association (APRA) and 90 years of the National Film and Sound Archive (NFSA), the two organisations have established The National Songbook.

This brand-new annual event and collection celebrates the songs that have helped shape Australia’s cultural identity and honours their creators. Each year, a selection of the nation’s most culturally significant songs will be inducted and preserved, ensuring they remain accessible for future generations.

The songs will be chosen by a panel of eminent industry experts, chaired by APRA Chair Jenny Morris MNZM OAM and NFSA Chair Annette Shun Wah.

Panel members span the musical spectrum, including songwriters, composers, media and academics. They will each independently nominate songs for consideration, forming a long list of potential inductees spanning centuries, genres and communities.

The inaugural induction honouring the first 10 songs will take place at the NFSA in Canberra on Wednesday 4 November 2026.

More details coming soon.