Australian of the Year

Grace Chia is a hip-hop artist, creative leader and advocate reshaping Tasmania’s music landscape by creating safer, more inclusive spaces for women and underrepresented young people. At 16, she founded CHIA Studios, a creative platform supporting emerging Tasmanian talent. 

Grace has delivered more than 150 workshops using music and art to build confidence, advocacy, connection and belonging. CHIA Studios has produced more than 50 events, including Tasmania’s first all-female hip-hop lineup, and delivered programs in youth justice centres, community houses, regional schools and Migrant Resource Centres. 

Her music and advocacy challenge misogyny, racism and gender-based violence while creating opportunities for voices too often unheard. She has garnered over 250,000 streams, performed at over 200 events nationwide, and in 2025 she received the Australian Women in Music’s Diversity Award. 

Through creativity, leadership and advocacy, Grace is showing how young people can build strong communities offering belonging and connection.