First Sounds is seeking the next wave of First Nations musicians for its 15th volume, with selected tracks to be distributed across community radio stations throughout Australia.

The national initiative, delivered through a partnership between the Community Broadcasting Association of Australia and Gadigal Information Service/Koori Radio, connects First Nations artists with broadcasters and listeners.

Since launching in 2020, First Sounds has released 14 volumes, with tracks from volumes 10 to 14 receiving more than 10,000 community radio spins over the past 12 months.

First Nations musicians, bands and producers can submit radio-ready tracks released within the past 18 months, with applications for Volume 15 open until October 13.

Submissions will be assessed by a panel of First Nations artists, broadcasters, radio programmers and music industry professionals.

The panel includes Atherton Tableland Yidinji producer and composer Thalia Skopellos, Garigal and Walkaloa Clan, GuriNgai Mob and Wanangine Nation artist Charlie Woods, Gunai/Kurnai and Yorta Yorta artist DJ PGZ and Koori Radio presenter Aaron Langford.

Ms Skopellos said she is looking for artists who bring a distinct voice and genuine storytelling to their music.

"I'm looking for originality, particularly in vocal style and delivery," Ms Skopellos said.

"I want to hear artists who have a unique vocal soundprint, something that feels distinctly theirs.

"I'm also looking for honest, wholesome storytelling."

Woods, who fronts Charlie Needs Braces and has appeared twice on First Sounds, is also looking for artists who bring their own stories and sound.

"I'm looking for artists who are unique and tell their story through their songs and original sound," Ms Woods said.

Community radio remains central to the initiative, giving emerging musicians another avenue to reach listeners.

Ms Skopellos described community radio as an important early platform for artists.

"Community radio is everything for emerging artists. Without it, many artists simply wouldn't have the opportunity to be heard," she said.

"It gives emerging artists a platform, helps them build an audience, and gives people the chance to discover artists they might not otherwise come across."

"For Indigenous artists especially, community radio can be an important space for our voices, stories and music to be heard and supported by community."

Ms Woods said radio exposure could also help artists build relationships across the industry.

"Community Radio is incredibly important to emerging artists as it creates a space for us to be heard, and discovered by new listeners," she said.

"Radio can help connect you to new listeners, introduce you to other artists, and build a strong supportive network around you for a sustainable life long career in the music industry."

Volume 14 featured artists including MINTY, Charlie Needs Braces, Kayps & Calvin Bennett, Millie Mills, Faith Kayrooz, Rob Edwards, Banda, Lamonay, NIDALA, Djawarray, CROOKED TP, 2KTRILLA, Garret Lyon and Alice Kings.

Successful Volume 15 applicants will have their songs included in digital and physical releases distributed to community broadcasters through AMRAP.

Both judges want First Sounds to create opportunities beyond radio airplay.

Ms Skopellos said she wants support to continue after artists have appeared on a compilation.

"Getting a song played is a great first step, but I'd like to see artists supported over the longer term with mentoring, industry connections, performance opportunities and help developing sustainable careers," Ms Skopellos said.

"I think the real value is in creating pathways for artists to keep growing and building their own audiences after they've been featured."

Ms Woods said she would also like to see more live opportunities for participating musicians.

"I would like to see First Sounds grow the pathways for First Nations artists, getting opportunities to perform live to air on the radio, touring and festivals would also be fantastic as it would provide further opportunities and create new networks in the music industry," Ms Woods said.

Applications for First Sounds Volume 15 close on October 13.