Aussie government backs new women in music mentor program

The Australian Independent Labels Association (AIR) has announced the inaugural Women in Music Mentor Program back by the Australian government.

The new initiative is a four-year mentoring and training program aimed at empowering women in the Australian music industry to develop new skills across a board cross-section.

The program is open to all female, female-identifying and non-binary participants working in – or aspiring to work in – creative, technical and business roles within the Aussie music industry.

Maria Amato, general manager at AIR, said the program will run nation-wide.

“We look forward to delivering this program over the next four years and to working collaboratively with industry professionals, mentors and mentees across Australia.”

AIR also confirmed the program will be held annually until 2023 and is designed to assist with career and leadership pathways, strategic decision making and corporate governance.

Mentees will be paired with mentors over a five-month period and the program will also provide professional development training opportunities, for mentors and mentees.

With a focus on developing skills in contract negotiation, financial literacy, marketing and leadership, applications for the 2020 round of mentorships are now open.

First Nations people, people with disabilities, those who identify as culturally diverse and those who reside in regional Australia are strongly encouraged to apply.

More information about eligibility, key dates and how to apply can be found here.