‘WAM Secures ‘Significant Government Funding,’ Announces Leadership Transition

West Australian Music (WAM) enters the second half of 2024 in good shape, after landing a transformative chunk of funding from government.

The WA trade association secures funding through the Department of Local Government, Sport and Cultural Industries amounting to $1 million dollars ($500,000 per year for the next two years).

That money will be put to go use, say reps.

Following a “rigorous process of review and engagement,” the trade body will implement a new strategy aimed at revitalising the organisation and positioning it to better serve the music industry, reads a statement.

Founded in 1985, WAM is the peak body responsible for supporting, nurturing and growing all forms of contemporary music in WA.

The recent years “have presented numerous challenges for the industry,” the message continues, and WAM insists it is committed to emerging “fit for purpose” to “build capacity and capability, contributing meaningfully and delivering impact at scale,” through workiing closely with industry, government, and critical partners and stakeholders.

“This funding underscores the crucial role that WAM plays in supporting and nurturing the Western Australian music industry,” says WAM board president Al Taylor. “It marks the first significant step in our new strategy, which will see WAM not only reshape but transform, making meaningful contributions to the industry and the broader Western Australian cultural landscape. We are looking forward to sharing more on the strategy over the coming months.”

At the same time, WAM executive director Livia Carre announces her resignation. A member of Chartered Accountants Australia with over 20 years’ experience in governance, corporate accounting, and finance, Carre joined WAM in January 2016 as business manager, rising to executive director in July 2022.

Carre’s “passion and dedication have been invaluable to WAM,” comments Taylor. “Under her leadership, we have navigated some of the most challenging times in our history. We are deeply grateful for her service and wish her all the best in her future endeavours.”

A recruitment campaign for a new CEO will kick-start in due course.