Planned to take place in November and give Australian artists and live music venues a boost, Great Southern Nights is the latest NSW government initiative to support the state's economic recovery.

Minister for Jobs, Investment, Tourism and Western Sydney Stuart Ayres said the gigs would be a welcome antidote to the challenges presented by COVID-19, bushfires and the prolonged drought.

"This celebration of outstanding Australian artists and incredible live music venues across NSW gives us all something to look forward to, from event-goers to industry," he said.

"We'll be able to get out and see Sydney and regional NSW come to life with some of Australia's top acts including Jimmy Barnes, Paul Kelly, Missy Higgins and Tones and I alongside emerging artists in unexpected places."

Delivered by Destination NSW in partnership with the Australian Recording Industry Association, venues across the state, "from the bush to the city", have been asked by Minister Ayres to nominate themselves to be involved as a host.

Among the 20 headline acts to play across the music event are:

Industry research by Music NSW indicates that live music generates approximately $3.6 billion and 23,000 jobs for the NSW economy.

All music events will be programmed in line with current Government health advice regarding physical distancing and venue capacity of public gatherings.

Venues and artists are invited to submit an expression of interest to be involved in Great Southern Nights - registrations open at http://www.greatsouthernnights.com.au