Access Granted: SXSW Sydney’s Equity & Access Free Pass Program Is Now Open

August 12, 2025

SXSW Sydney is back for 2025 — and with it, the Equity & Access Free Pass Program returns to open doors for those who shape our creative and impact-driven industries. If you're working or studying in screen, music, games, the arts, sciences or social enterprise — or come from an underrepresented community — this might just be the opportunity for you.

This year, SXSW Sydney is once again partnering with Social Enterprise Australia to distribute free passes, ensuring a more diverse and inclusive event experience. The program is designed to support those whose perspectives make the creative landscape stronger, and who may otherwise face barriers to attending.

Who’s eligible?
You can apply if you:

1. Identify with one or more of the following groups - First Nations people, individuals with a disability (concession cardholders), full time Masters and PhD students.

2. From a culturally diverse community AND ALSO are undertaking undergraduate studies, or working in, Screen, Games, Music, the Arts or not-for-profit Social Enterprises.

3. Live in a regional or rural area AND ALSO are undertaking undergraduate studies in, or working in, Screen, Games, Music, the Arts or not-for-profit Social Enterprises.

If this sounds like you, you could be heading to SXSW Sydney 2025 — joining thousands of thinkers, makers and innovators from across the globe to exchange ideas, build networks and shape what’s next.

In 2024, over 300 people took part in the program — sparking greater visibility and leadership from the social enterprise sector across the event. From panels and pitch sessions to exhibitions and mentoring, the presence of organisations like Project Rockit, Plate It Forward and Awesome Black helped put purpose-driven enterprise in the spotlight.

These collaborations don’t just benefit individuals — they strengthen the sector as a whole, creating more opportunities to grow, partner, and lead.

With more than 1,600 sessions, showcases, screenings and activations, SXSW Sydney 2025 is shaping up to be another unforgettable celebration of ideas and innovation.

Ready to apply?
Applications are open now through Social Enterprise Australia. If selected, you’ll receive a free SXSW Sydney 2025 Pro Pass, giving you access to talks, panels, live music, film screenings and so much more.

Head to socialenterpriseaustralia.org.au/sxswsydney2025 to apply or find out more.

The future belongs to the curious — and that includes you.

Apply Now