Young First Peoples looking to kickstart their creative careers will get the chance to work at some of Victoria’s most exciting artistic organisations thanks to support from the Andrews Labor Government.
Minister for Creative Industries Martin Foley has launched the First Peoples Creative Industries Traineeships program, offering 12-month paid placements in a range of workplaces spanning the creative industries.
“This program provides an important pathway to working in the creative industries and will launch a new generation of First Peoples creative leaders,” said Minister Foley. “I encourage other Victorian creative organisations to open their doors to ambitious young people looking to pursue bright and promising careers.”
Traineeships are now on offer with companies such as music heavyweights Unified Music Group, music label Bad Apples and Melbourne Symphony Orchestra, Next Wave festival, Footscray Community Arts Centre and creative venue the Meat Market. Regional placement locations also include Bendigo District Aboriginal Co-operative and Shepparton’s Kaiela Arts.
Designed for Victorian-based First Peoples aged 18 to 24 who are not currently working more than 15 hours a week, each full-time traineeship will include hands-on training, tailored mentoring and access to a network of First Peoples working in the creative industries as well as a First Peoples Liaison Officer. Trainees will also be funded to undertake a nationally recognised Certificate III-IV in Business.
Further host organisations and businesses are sought for 2020, including those working in fashion, games, festivals, museums, design, music and the arts. Traineeships are fully funded by the Government, with training and support provided to host organisations in relation to cultural protocols and safe practices.
“In line with the principle of Aboriginal self-determination, we must invest in our young people and provide opportunities for them to pursue their economic, social and cultural development,” said Kylie Belling, Creative Victoria First Peoples Senior Manager. “These traineeships, with support at all stages, are a great way to start them on this journey.”
For more information on the program, how to become a host organisation, visit: www.creative.vic.gov.au for details.
Image: Tanderrum, Melbourne International Arts Festival – photo by James Henry