West Australian Music (WAM) has announced its plans to embark on “a new strategic direction” for its future operations, charged by a total of $1 million in government funding.
In a press release, the organisation explained that its new funding comes via the Department of Local Government, Sport and Cultural Industries, and will be split between two instalments of $500,000 across 2024 and 2025. The financial boosts will allow WAM to undergo major shifts in its operational structure, comprising “a comprehensive new strategy and organisational reshaping”.
It’s said WAM’s new strategy comes after “a rigorous process of review and engagement”, with the goal behind it being to “revitalis[e] the organisation and [position] it to better serve the music industry”.
It comes particularly in response to challenges faced by the Australian music industry at large over the last few years; WAM’s representatives vouch that the body will work closely with key industry and government figures, as well as critical partners and stakeholders, to ensure it “build[s] capacity and capability, contributing meaningfully and delivering impact at scale”.
In a formal statement, Al Taylor – President of the Board for WAM – said the funding “underscores the crucial role that WAM plays in supporting and nurturing the Western Australian music industry”. He added: “It marks the first significant step in our new strategy, which will see WAM not only reshape but transform, making meaningful contributions to the industry and the broader Western Australian cultural landscape. We are looking forward to sharing more on the strategy over the coming months.”
WAM has already begun shifting into its new era, with this week’s news being accompanied by the exit of Livia Carre, the body’s current Executive Director. It’s noted that a recruitment campaign will be launched soon, setting WAM up to induct a new CEO.
Taylor praised the work Carre has done at WAM thus far, saying her “passion and dedication have been invaluable” to the organisation. “Under her leadership,” he continued, “we have navigated some of the most challenging times in our history. We are deeply grateful for her service and wish her all the best in her future endeavours.”
