Victoria announces $2m to boost opportunities for First Peoples in creative industries

The Victorian state government has committed $2 million to a new plan to boost employment opportunities for First Peoples in the creative industries.

It is also set up to raise the profile and availability of local Aboriginal arts and creative products through a new plan.

“Art, storytelling, performance and design have been an intrinsic part of life for the First Peoples of Victoria for tens of thousands of years – yet First Peoples are under-represented in our state’s renowned creative industries,” pointed out minister for creative industries Martin Foley.

“This plan will provide new pathways and opportunities for employment, as well as new ways to invest in and promote the rich and diverse talent and creativity of First Peoples across the state.”

The minister launched the Labor government’s First Peoples Action Plan for the Creative Industries 2018–2020 at Bendigo Art Gallery on the land of the Dja Dja Wurrung.

The plan’s 21 actions include new traineeships, a tailored employment program, cultural exchange opportunities, and initiatives to build business capacity.

It aims to address current barriers to employment and training, under-representation of First Peoples on boards and in senior roles of creative organisations, and the sale of inauthentic First Peoples creative product.

The strategy, devised over 18 months of discussions with First Peoples people, also sees the setting up of a new First Peoples Reference Group will provide ongoing guidance and advice to Creative Victoria to implement the plan.

For more information and to read the full plan visit creative.vic.gov.au