The 2025 Vanda & Young Global Songwriting Competition is now open! With over $80,000 in prizes – including a game-changing $50,000 first prize – this international competition is a launchpad for songwriters at any stage of their journey, while raising vital funds for Noro Music Therapy.
Established by APRA AMCOS and Alberts to honour legendary songwriters Harry Vanda and George Young, the competition is renowned for discovering and championing songwriting talent worldwide, helping propel the careers of past Australian winners including Amy Shark, Baker Boy, Budjerah, Gang of Youths, Genesis Owusu, Mallrat, and Thelma Plum.
“Drawing entries from 52 countries last year, the Vanda & Young Global Song Competition is a truly global platform,” says David Albert, CEO of Alberts, underscoring its strong international status and reputation. “From emerging talent to established acts, it offers artists the chance to share their story and sound with the world – carrying forward Vanda & Young’s legacy and enduring influence.”
For its twelfth edition, the VIP judging panel has expanded to include 70 judges – a diverse mix of songwriters and music industry professionals from across the globe, including Australian judges: Andrew Klippel (Ourness), Annabelle Herd (ARIA), Damian Rinaldi (AMPAL), Francoise Tetaz, Jenny Morris, Marion Goodman-Briand (YouTube), Trials, Kirsty Davison (APRA AMCOS), and previous winners; Megan Washington, Isabella Manfredi, and more.
In addition to the $50,000 first prize, $10,000 will be awarded for second place, alongside two $5,000 prizes. Ten additional prizes of $1,000 each will be given to emerging songwriters worldwide, further supporting fresh talent. There is also a special $5,000 prize exclusively for emerging Australasian songwriters.
Early Bird entries are open until 25 August. Songwriters from anywhere in the world, whether new or established, can enter songs in any genre, language, or stage of production.
For details and to enter, head to globalsongcomp.com.
