The National Indigenous Music Awards have been postponed in light of NSW's continuing struggle to seize control of the COVID-19 outbreak.
The awards were slated for August 7 in Darwin, and while the Northern Territory has successfully suppressed the virus, restrictions on artists and performers from other states would have limited attendance.
In a statement, the organisation said the festivities would be put on "pause" until later in the year, "to ensure performers and nominees can be together for the annual celebration."
The move follows a series of disappointing postponements and cancellations, such as this year's NAIDOC celebrations and awards ceremony.
NIMA Creative Director Ben Graetz expressed his disappointment, but insisted the move was a necessary precaution.
“It is unfortunate yet the best choice for all our artists and community that we move this year’s event to ensure the night celebrates togetherness,” he said in a statement.
This year's nominees include some of the best rising talent in First Nations music, such as The Kid LAROI, as well as stalwarts of the Indigenous music scene.
