IFAC Handa Australian Singing Competition - ASC

16/05/2026

We are thrilled to announce Dr Nicholas Milton AM as the 2026 Conductor of the Opera Australia Orchestra for the IFAC Handa Australian Singing Competition Finals Concert. 🎶

Internationally acclaimed for his dynamic interpretations of operatic and symphonic repertoire, Dr Milton is one of Australia’s leading conductors, holding major artistic roles across Germany, Austria, and Australia.

We look forward to welcoming him to lead the Opera Australia Orchestra for this exciting celebration of Australia’s next generation of vocal talent. ✨

Image credit: Göttinger Symphonieorchester

14/05/2026

🎙️ NEW PRIZE ANNOUNCEMENT 🎙️

The IFAC Handa Australian Singing Competition is proud to introduce the ABC Classic Studio Recording Prize in partnership with ABC Classic.

The recipient will receive a professional studio recording at an ABC venue, including a Music Producer and Sound Engineer, post-production support, and a Recording & Broadcast Fee. The recording will also be broadcast on ABC Classic and available globally through digital platforms.

A major new opportunity supporting Australia’s next generation of classical singers. ✨

12/05/2026

From the IFAC Handa Australian Singing Competition stage to the Opera Australia Young Artist Program — we’re delighted to celebrate ASC Laureates Jake Lyle and Sidra Nissen on their inclusion in the 2026–27 YAP cohort! 👏🎶

We’re thrilled to celebrate 2024 Finalist baritone Jake Lyle and 2025 Mathy Winner mezzo-soprano Sidra Nissen on their selection for the prestigious YAP program.

Since 2025, the IFAC Handa Australian Singing Competition has proudly partnered with Opera Australia through our Opera Australia Finalist Audition Prize, giving finalists the opportunity to advance directly to the final round of auditions for the Young Artist Program.

It’s inspiring to see these outstanding young artists taking the next step in their operatic journeys — bravo Jake and Sidra! 🌟🎭

04/05/2026

✨ Big News! ✨
We are delighted to announce the 10 Semi-Finalists for the 2026 IFAC Handa Australian Singing Competition!

We are so excited for these young singers and can’t wait to hear them perform at the Semi Finals!! 🙌🙌

04/05/2026

🎉 Congratulations to Aylish for progressing to the Semi-Finals of the 2026 IFAC Handa Australian Singing Competition! 🌟

To learn more about the Semi-Finalists, and to attend the Semi-Final Concert, head to the links in our bio. 🎶

04/05/2026

🎉 Congratulations to Bridget for progressing to the Semi-Finals of the 2026 IFAC Handa Australian Singing Competition! 🌟

To learn more about the Semi-Finalists, and to attend the Semi-Final Concert, head to the links in our bio. 🎶

04/05/2026

🎉 Congratulations to Kate for progressing to the Semi-Finals of the 2026 IFAC Handa Australian Singing Competition! 🌟

To learn more about the Semi-Finalists, and to attend the Semi-Final Concert, head to the links in our bio. 🎶

04/05/2026

🎉 Congratulations to Ciaran for progressing to the Semi-Finals of the 2026 IFAC Handa Australian Singing Competition! 🌟

To learn more about the Semi-Finalists, and to attend the Semi-Final Concert, head to the links in our bio. 🎶

06/02/2026

🎶 Entries Now Open – 2026 IFAC Handa Australian Singing Competition ❤️🙌🌟

The 2026 IFAC Handa Australian Singing Competition (ASC) is officially open for entries! As one of Australia’s most prestigious national competitions for emerging classical singers, the ASC provides an exceptional platform for young artists pursuing careers in opera and classical singing.

If you are an aspiring opera singer or classical vocalist ready to take the next step in your professional journey, we encourage you to apply.

🔗 Apply here: www.aussing.org/how-to-enter/

📖 Please ensure you carefully read the Rules and Conditions before submitting your application.

🗓 Entries close: 11:59pm AEST, Friday 13 March 2026
⏰ Late entries accepted (late fee applies): until 11:59pm AEST, Monday 16 March 2026

Tag a singer who should apply and help us spread the word across Australia’s classical music community.

01/10/2025

Sidra Nissen took top honours at the 2025 IFAC Handa Australian Singing Competition. Her compelling rendition of Ravel's Kaddish is worth a read—check out the article to learn more about her moving performance.

Sidra Nissen wins the Australian Singing Competition with her moving rendition of Kaddish, showcasing her unique talent.