We acknowledge & pay our respects to First Nations peoples & recognise the role of intergenerational song practitioners in establishing rich & diverse music practices that exist today.

Voices Amplified

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We acknowledge and pay our respects to First Nations peoples and recognise the role of intergenerational song practitioners in establishing the rich and diverse music practices that exist today.

Voices Amplified is a five-hour online or full day in-person workshop framed around the idea of cultural responsiveness, embedded with mental health and cultural awareness. The purpose is to learn about Diversity, Equity and Inclusion (DEI) from a primarily First Nations perspective, in the context of the music industry.

This training is led by First Nations peoples to ensure awareness is being spread about how First Nations can be involved and thrive in the music industry.

A key motivation of this workshop was the publication of the Australian Council report entitled Towards Equity in 2021, where it was highlighted that there is a significantly lower number of First Nations peoples in the workforce, more specifically for music workers behind the scenes or in high positions.

We’d like to acknowledge the Sony Global Social Justice Fund, which played the pivotal role of funding Voices Amplified. 

We would also like to extend our gratitude to the First Nations people from the music community who played a part in the development of this training.

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Voices Amplified is a comprehensive and transformative Diversity, Equity and Inclusion training program where participants are empowered to challenge systemic barriers, address unconscious biases, and foster respectful relationships with First Nations communities when working in the music industry. The workshop is aimed at fostering a greater understanding, empathy, cultural competency and cultural intelligence among participants, while also addressing historical contemporary challenges faced by First Nations communities.

The training is a 5 hour online training, or a full day in person. There will be a break halfway through.

We have a cap on participants, so that everyone has an opportunity to connect, contribute and ask questions.

This is an active learning space, and we ask that you have your camera on (if online) and come ready to engage.

The training will be facilitated by First Nations people who work within the music industry. Through sharing their lived experience and knowledge, they will guide you through group discussions and engaging activities, and take you on a journey through five modules:

  1. Voices Amplified: An Introduction
  2. Language & Terminology: Communication
  3. Racism, Power & Privilege: Conversations
  4. Understanding Differences: Diverse World Views
  5. Diversity, Equity & Inclusion in Practice: A Music Industry Lens

The training, which focuses on the experiences of First Nations peoples, is essential for creating a more inclusive society that values diversity, respects First Nations rights and wellbeing, and works towards reconciliation and social justice.

This training is recommended for all staff of music-based organisations, to elevate the voices and experiences of First Nations peoples.

How can I complete the training?

If you’re looking to register your workplace into a session, click here to find out more.

If you’re an individual who would like to take part, join our mailing list here.

You can check out more dedicated mental health events and supports for First Nations musicians, managers, crew and music workers below here.