Music Victoria Awards uncover voter fraud in public categories, reannounce winners

Music Victoria has announced the discovery of voter fraud in five of the six public voting categories for the 2024 Music Victoria Awards.

Following an investigation with the third-party voting system Award Force, cyber security experts, and legal advisors, the organisation confirmed that thousands of fraudulent votes were falsely attributed to nominees, affecting the final outcomes.

The impacted categories are:

• Best Song
• Best Album
• Best Solo Artist
• Best Group
• Best Regional Act

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Revised winners have been determined, and Music Victoria has notified all impacted stakeholders. Originally announced recipients will retain their trophies and prizes, while the newly determined winners will also receive recognition. The revised winners were announced publicly at 5pm today and will be celebrated further during the 2025 awards ceremony.

The affected categories (Best Song, Best Album, Best Solo Artist, Best Group, Best Regional Act) now reflect changes based on the removal of fraudulent votes.

Revised winners

• Best Song: Jess Ribeiro
• Best Album: Angie McMahon
• Best Solo Artist: Maple Glider
• Best Group: Gut Health
• Best Regional Act: Leah Senior

If you have information relevant to the investigation, contact the Australian Cyber Security Hotline on 1300 292 371. Find out more here.

Words by Staff Writer