Supporting Indigenous Music Talent

The Territory Government continues to foster Indigenous musical talent in the Territory by committing to a unique partnership that aims to develop our local Indigenous music industry.

Minister for Regional Development, Karl Hampton and the Minister for Arts and Museums, Gerry McCarthy, announced the program ahead of the 2009 Northern Territory Indigenous Music Awards, which celebrate the work of our Indigenous musicians.

"The Indigenous Employment Partnership for the NT Music Sector 2009-2011 aims to create jobs and offer pathways to employment for Indigenous musicians by linking employment opportunities with the Territorys music sector," Minister Hampton said.

"As one of the key partners, the Northern Territory Government will assist Indigenous musicians to generate income from their talent by committing $350,000 over three years to increase the number of touring circuits and festivals and improve their coordination and running."

The Indigenous Employment Partnership will also develop Regional Music Hubs that will assist in delivering training, mentoring and pathways to employment while offering performance, touring and recording opportunities. Work on the first hub in Katherine will start before the end of the year.

Mr McCarthy said he hoped to see more Indigenous musicians put themselves and the Territory in the spotlight, and the Territory Government would continue to offer pathways and support to develop this talent.

"Northern Territory Indigenous Music Awards Act of the Year finalists Jessica Mauboy and Geoffrey Gurrumul Yunupingu are fantastic ambassadors for the local industry, and we hope to develop more rising stars from the depth of talent that we know is out there," Mr McCarthy said.

Welcome to the June 2009 edition of the Indigenous Economic Update.

As you will read the Department of Regional Development, Primary Industry, Fisheries and Resources is preparing for the up-coming fourth Indigenous Economic Development (IED) Forum  Developing Our Future Together to be held in Alice Springs in early October.

The forum provides an avenue for people to come together from various backgrounds and promote services and programs, share knowledge and experience and explore new opportunities that lead to sustainable economic developments for Indigenous Territorians.
In conjunction with the Forum is the Indigenous Business Expo where Indigenous businesses will have the opportunity to promote themselves to a targeted investor audience.