Independent Music Exchange Expands 2026 Event with Education Programme & Participating Labels

The 2026 Independent Music Exchange aims to create space for collaboration, knowledge-sharing, and community-building between labels, artists, and music fans.

This year’s newly launched education programme will feature conversations and workshops focused on the realities of running independent labels, releasing music, audience development, and sustaining creative communities.

One of the featured sessions, “Running an Independent Label: A Beginner’s Guide,” is scheduled for Saturday, June 6th, from 11:00 am to 12:00 pm.

Moderated by Ethan Holben, the panel is described as:

“A practical walkthrough of starting and sustaining an independent label, covering everything from releasing music and making records to building an audience, finding your identity and navigating early stumbling blocks.”

Independent Music Exchange event admat

According to the event organizers, the session is intended for anyone interested in launching a label, releasing music independently, or building spaces for emerging artists and sounds.

Additional education sessions and participating speakers are expected to be announced in the lead-up to the event.

The 2026 edition of IME will also feature an expanded list of participating independent labels from across Australia, reinforcing the event’s role as a hub for underground and independent music communities.

The Independent Music Exchange has steadily grown into a platform connecting labels, artists, and music fans through live programming, networking opportunities, and community-driven initiatives.

Event Information:

• Dates: Saturday, June 6th to Sunday, June 7th, 2026
• Venue: Northcote Town Hall, Naarm/Melbourne
• Admission: Free entry, all ages