Victorian production crew and live music professionals from all walks of life will soon be able to access a new training initiative to upskill during COVID-19 lockdowns – and for free.
Launched by CrewCare, the newly created AMBIT (Assisted Music Business Industry Training) programme is a creative initiative provided thanks to financial assistance from Creative Victoria and the Victorian Government.AMBIT will feature modules created by, with and for the live Victorian events industry. "It's important to have a full circle approach if we are going to get back to work sooner," Project Manager Jade Bophela says.
"We have worked really hard to create a programme for everyone, whether you are starting out and undertaking one of the practical courses or are an experienced production manager and want to learn a new area of the business via the upskill modules.
"We are extremely grateful to Creative Victoria and the Hon Martin Foley [Minister for Creative Industries] for believing in this initiative and making this training possible.
"These programmes not only assist during the temporary shutdown but will pave the way for crew to be more versatile in their skillset when the industry bounces back."
Given the financial strain COVID-19 has placed on the entire music industry, AMBIT programmes are not only free but participants of the practical and upskill modules will receive a small stipend for their participation. Upon completion of these modules, participants will receive a certificate of completion that will be industry recognised.
Local businesses also have the opportunity to be part of the AMBIT programme, with projected outcomes of the initiative including 15 Victorian businesses receiving income by creating and delivering content; 4 sole traders that may not have earned income since March to receive income by developing and administering this program; 490 crew learning a new skill and receiving income by participating in that training.
"Victoria's crews and live events businesses are the lifeblood of our music and events sectors," Minister for Creative Industries Martin Foley says.
"The Victorian Government is proud to back CrewCare and this training programme that will support some 500 crew members and businesses that have been hit hard to undertake paid training to develop their skills and businesses as they prepare for reopening."
The AMBIT programme will be delivered in partnership with music industry organisations, Arts Centre Melbourne and RMIT VE.
