Survey finds workers considering leaving the Victorian music industry

February 16, 2021

A new study examining the impact of the Coronavirus pandemic on the Victorian music sector found that 58% of respondents are considering leaving the industry.

Commissioned by the Victorian Music Development Office (VMDO) and the Victorian Office for Women and undertaken by RMIT University, the study - Understanding Challenges to the Victorian Music Industry During COVID-19 - suggests that a significant consequence of the Coronavirus pandemic will be the likely significant loss of talent from the Victorian music sector.

Commenting on the findings, VMDO General Manager, Katie Stewart, explained “throughout the pandemic many music workers found themselves doing unpaid work and also found it difficult to stay connected to industry peers.”

Other insights from the study found that:

• 80% of respondents said their involvement in the industry would be different post-COVID-19
• 74% of respondents said their income had decreased
• 57% of respondents were worried about paying for basics like rent and food
• 44% of respondents lost all their music-related work during the pandemic (those in full-time employment dropped from 34% to 7%)

Explaining the results, Doctor Catherine Strong from RMIT University, noted “the survey also highlights that the pandemic has exacerbated and continued some already-existing problems within the Victorian music industry, including income security, discrimination and elitism as well as issues linked to location and demographics.

“However, the consequences of the pandemic also enhanced some positive aspects for the sector, including greater community-mindedness, innovation, creativity and a commitment to music-making.”

Survey respondents were also asked what they would like to see changed as the industry recovers and reopens.

Key aspirations resulting from this question included:

• Improved working conditions - better pay and hours, improved access to benefits and more job security;
• Changing the culture of the industry - increasing inclusion and addressing discrimination (sexual, gendered and racial) as well as shifting the focus to shared values rather than profits;
• Maintaining external industry support - government grants and programs as well increased funding the VMDO and Music Victoria; and
• Continued recognition for the sector - highlighting the outstanding skills and an industry that demonstrates economic and social benefits.

During the pandemic, the Victorian Government has provided close to $25 million in dedicated support to the Victorian music industry. This has included funding to support artists and acts, music industry workers and organisations, events and live music venues.

Click here to view the survey results is available on the VMDO website.

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