John Davis has been named the recipient of the 2026 Sir Bernard Heinze Memorial Award, recognising his outstanding contribution to music in Australia.

Best known for his long leadership of the Australian Music Centre, Davis played a pivotal role in shaping the country’s contemporary music landscape over more than three decades.

The award, established by the University of Melbourne in collaboration with the Melbourne Symphony Orchestra, honours individuals who have made a significant impact on Australian musical life.

Professor Gary McPherson, left, Ormond Chair of Music at the Melbourne Conservatorium of Music, presents the 2026 Sir Bernard Heinze Memorial Award to John Davis. Photo supplied

Davis joined the Australian Music Centre in 1989 and was appointed Chief Executive Officer in 1995, a position he held for 26 years until 2021. During his tenure, he oversaw major transformations in the creation and distribution of Australian music, including the development of digital platforms that broadened access to the Centre’s extensive catalogue.

Under his leadership, the organisation expanded...