r/australianmusic

I’m trying to figure out where to start with pursuing music seriously and would love some advice from people who are actually in the Australian music scene.
I’m based in Brisbane and want to become a singer/songwriter, eventually releasing and performing my own music. I’m particularly interested in alternative/goth/metal styles. I don’t have any formal music training yet, so I’m starting from scratch.

I’m looking for somewhere that can help me build up my skills while also giving me opportunities to meet other musicians, collaborate, perform and start building industry connections.

I’m considering private singing lessons as a starting point, as well as looking into music courses such as JMC or TAFE, but I’m not sure what the best pathway is.
If you were starting from where I am, what would you recommend? Is there a particular course, school, teacher, program or pathway in Brisbane/Australia that you’d say “start here — this will help you build the skills and connections you need”?

I’d especially love to hear from people who are actually working in music or have been through this process themselves.