Queensland Government makes a stand for music diversity

Minister for Women, Di Farmer has announced $140,000 in sponsorship for the inaugural Australian Women in Music Awards (AWMA) to drive gender equality in the music industry.

Announcing the sponsorship, Ms Farmer said the awards would recognise the value, contribution and ongoing participation of women across the full spectrum of the Australian music industry.

“As the Minister for Women – and a proud Queenslander – I want our state to be a place where women are respected, where gender equality is embraced, and the rights, interests and well-being of women and girls are promoted and protected,” she said.

“We know that where women are strongly represented that industries, organisations and communities do better.

“Women represent only one-fifth of songwriters and composers registered with the Australasian Performing Rights Association (APRA), despite them making up 45 percent of Australians with a music qualification and half of those studying music.

“I’m optimistic about this project and its role to position Queensland as a leader in driving gender equality in the music industry.”

The AWMA has been established to foster gender and cultural equality for women working in all areas of the Australian music industry.

AWMA Founder Vicki Gordon joined with Queensland musicians Christine Anu, spokesperson for Indigenous Female Arts and Katie Noonan, spokesperson for Women in Music to launch the awards.

Ms Farmer said she was delighted to be able to offer the funding to benefit all women in the music industry from on stage to back stage and in the board room.

“Out of the sponsorship, $125,000 will go towards the overall awards and a further $15,000 will go to ensure Indigenous women from rural and remote areas are supported to fully participate.”

Minister for the Arts Leeanne Enoch said it was fantastic that the first-ever Australian Women in Music Awards would be held here in Queensland.

“The Australian Women in Music Awards will showcase our talented performers, but also recognise those behind the scenes in technical production, music education, music photography and humanitarian work, as well as recognise First Nations and multicultural artists,” she said.

“These awards will no doubt make a mark on Queensland’s vibrant and thriving arts industry while recognising the achievements of our talented female artists.”

The Australian Women in Music Awards and Forum will be held over two days at Brisbane Powerhouse from 9 to 10 October 2018.

ENDS

Media Contact:                   

Minister Farmer’s office: 0427 781 920

Minister Enoch: 0437 859 987