Laneway Festival has long been a beacon in Australia's vibrant music scene, evolving from humble beginnings into a multi-city powerhouse. As we gear up for Laneway 2026, the festival's programming team shares insights into maintaining its signature spirit—rooted in the teachings of St. Jerome and a commitment to discovery over commercial predictability.
The Origins: From St. Jerome's Laneway to Global Stages
Launched in 2005 as a weekly gig at St. Jerome’s Bar in Melbourne’s Caledonian Lane, Laneway Festival started small but with big ambitions. What began as an intimate space for local talent quickly outgrew its roots, expanding into a full-fledged event across Australia and beyond. By 2026, marking its 21st year, Laneway continues to blend massive headliners with breakout acts, creating those unforgettable "I was there" moments—like spotting a 16-year-old Billie Eilish strumming her ukulele in 2018.
The festival's name pays homage to its laneway heritage, symbolizing hidden gems and unexpected discoveries. Co-founder Danny Rogers emphasizes that this ethos remains central. "We want to programme it really interestingly and not be driven by what people expect," Rogers told triple j. This approach has propelled Laneway through highs and lows in the live music industry, from booming festival seasons to pandemic disruptions.
Evolving Locations and Expansions
Over the years, Laneway has migrated across venues as crowds swelled. From Melbourne's parks to Sydney's bayside spots and Brisbane's riverfronts, each iteration adapts while preserving its core vibe. For 2026, expect fresh layouts in key Australian cities, designed to foster that electric, community-driven energy. The festival's growth into New Zealand and Southeast Asia underscores its global appeal, but Australia remains its beating heart.
The Programming Dream Team: Eyes on the Horizon
Behind Laneway's acclaimed lineups is a tight-knit team that punches above its weight. Danny Rogers, alongside programming coordinator Ruby Miles and team member Travis, forms the core. Their process is a mix of intuition, industry buzz, and digital savvy, ensuring 2026's bill captures the zeitgeist.
Rogers reflects on the festival's crossroads: chase bigger sales with superstar acts, or stay true to its risk-taking roots? The team opts for the latter, aiming to keep Laneway relevant for another two decades. "How do we programme this into the future so that in 10 years' time, the limelight still stands for what it stood for?" he asks.
Global Scouting: From London to Local Gigs
Scouting talent is key to Laneway's edge. Back in 2010, Rogers lived in London, attending European summer festivals to spot rising stars. Fast-forward to 2026, and the team has revived this strategy with Sonny Russell on the ground in the UK. "You can feel an energy moving with stuff," Rogers notes, highlighting the value of on-site presence during Australia's winter.
This international lens complements local efforts. The team attends gigs, sifts through whispers from promoters, and relies on word-of-mouth. But in an era of viral fame, they don't overlook the digital realm. Ruby Miles, a triple j presenter who manages the festival's socials, brings a youth-focused perspective. "I spend a lot of time on the internet in the circles, seeing everybody discussing what's hot and reporting back," she says.
Miles acknowledges that algorithms can silo tastes, but her role ensures diverse voices shape the lineup. By tapping into online communities, the team identifies acts resonating with Gen Z and millennials—think TikTok sensations poised for stadiums.
Balancing Big Names and Breakthroughs
Laneway's magic lies in its curation: pairing established icons with emerging talents. Past successes like booking Billie Eilish pre-fame or Arctic Monkeys in their early days showcase the team's foresight. For 2026, expect a similar alchemy—headliners drawing crowds while undercard acts steal the show.
The process isn't without challenges. With a small team, decisions are collaborative and swift. They cross-reference live performances, streaming data, and fan forums to mitigate risks. "We also like..." Miles begins, trailing into the excitement of unearthing hidden gems that align with Laneway's cultural pulse.
The Role of Social Media in Modern Curation
In today's landscape, social media is a crystal ball for trends. Platforms like TikTok, Instagram, and Twitter amplify underground buzz, allowing the team to stay ahead. Miles' dual role as social manager and programmer bridges this gap, ensuring lineups reflect what young fans are obsessing over. This inclusivity sets Laneway apart from formulaic festivals, fostering diversity in genres from indie rock to electronic and hip-hop.
Critics praise this approach for nurturing Australian talent alongside international draws. Events like Laneway not only boost local economies but also position Australia as a hub for music innovation.
Looking Ahead: Laneway 2026 and Beyond
As tickets go on sale, anticipation builds for Laneway 2026. The team promises a lineup that honors its St. Jerome legacy—intimate, innovative, and unapologetically forward-thinking. Walking through those gates still gives goosebumps, as one attendee notes, evoking the raw energy of its laneway days.
In a crowded festival market, Laneway's staying power stems from its people. By prioritizing culture over commerce, Rogers, Miles, and crew ensure the event remains a rite of passage for music lovers. Whether you're chasing nostalgia or new favorites, Laneway 2026 invites you to discover the next big thing.
This commitment to the "teachings of St. Jerome"—simplicity, community, and bold exploration—keeps the spirit alive. As the Australian summer heats up, Laneway stands ready to soundtrack another unforgettable year.
