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Music has a unique ability to connect people, inspire change, and tell stories that words alone cannot. Recognising this power, the Asia Pacific Hospice Palliative Care Network (APHN), in partnership with Global Partners in Care, has launched the APHC27OPCC Songwriting Competition, inviting musicians and songwriters across the Asia Pacific region to create an anthem for palliative care.

More than just a songwriting contest, this initiative aims to raise awareness of palliative care to new audiences. The winning song will debut at the Asia Pacific Hospice Palliative Care Conference (APHC27OPCC) in Adelaide and is intended to become an enduring anthem for future APHC conferences.

One of the key messages behind the competition is that palliative care is not simply about end-of-life support. APHN highlights that palliative care is fundamentally about reducing preventable suffering, addressing physical, emotional, and social challenges with compassion and care.

The competition encourages participants to explore questions such as:

• What does hope sound like?
• How can music express compassion?
• What happens when suffering is met with understanding and support?

Rather than focusing on loss, entrants are invited to create songs that celebrate resilience, connection, hope, and humanity.

The competition is open to songwriters, musicians, and storytellers who want to use their creativity to make a difference. Participants must submit an original, fully produced song featuring both original lyrics and music. Instrumental-only or lyrics-only submissions are not eligible.

Submissions are open from 10 August to 31 December 2026, giving artists ample time to develop a meaningful and impactful piece of work.

Entrants are also invited to share a personal reflection about their connection to palliative care. Whether they are healthcare professionals, patients, caregivers, family members, or advocates, APHN wants to understand the inspiration behind each submission. Entries that demonstrate a genuine connection to the field will receive additional consideration during judging.

Exciting Prizes on Offer

The competition offers substantial recognition and rewards for outstanding entries:

• Champion: USD $2,000 plus travel support to attend APHC27OPCC
• 1st Runner-Up: USD $1,000
• 2nd Runner-Up: USD $500

Participants are also encouraged, though not required, to perform their song for a palliative care audience and submit a recording. These performance recordings may strengthen an entry by demonstrating how the song resonates with listeners.

Entries will be assessed across three areas:

1. Vocal melody crafting and musicality (30%)
2. English lyrics crafting (30%)
3. Alignment with APHN’s mission of reducing preventable suffering through hope and compassion (40%)

A distinguished judging panel includes award-winning Singaporean producer and songwriter Dr Ken Chong and acclaimed Australian artist and educator Corinne Starr, both recognised for their contributions to music and community engagement.

To participate and find out more information please click on the following link: APHC27OPCC Songwriting Competition