The Victorian Music Development Office (VMDO) recently unveiled new research findings at its Music Data and Insights Summit. The research, titled Skills & Roles – Support workers in Victorian music industries, is the result of a collaboration with RMIT University. This study builds upon a previous report from 2020, Career Path: The Victorian Music Business Career Life Cycle.
The research sheds light on the diverse skill set required by music professionals in Victoria. It highlights that over half of these professionals engage in multiple roles concurrently, with only a small fraction holding a single full-time position. The demanding nature of the industry is evident, as nearly half of the respondents reported working more than 40 hours per week across various roles.
Survey data collected from 212 workers and 21 in-depth interviews uncovered the broad spectrum of skills necessary for success in the music sector. The study underscores the challenges faced by music workers, who are increasingly expected to be versatile and proficient in various areas.
The evolving landscape of the music industry demands adaptability from its workforce. The World Economic Forum Future Jobs Report predicts significant shifts in core skills by 2030, emphasizing the importance of technological literacy, creative thinking, talent management, and analytical skills.
Financial stress is a prevalent issue among creative workers, with 62% experiencing increased financial pressure according to a Support Act survey. The research highlights the crucial role of business, financial, and legal skills in the music sector, areas that require further development to support sustainable careers.
Soft skills, such as communication and problem-solving, emerged as vital competencies for over 80% of music professionals. VMDO General Manager Kirsty Rivers emphasized the importance of understanding and addressing the skill gaps within the industry to foster growth and resilience.
RMIT University Associate Professor Catherine Strong commended the report for its comprehensive mapping of support roles and associated skills in the Victorian music sector. The research underscores the need for formalized training programs to bridge skill gaps and enhance workforce capabilities.
Prior to the pandemic, the music industry faced challenges due to an under-skilled workforce and inadequate training structures. The disruptions caused by the pandemic further accentuated these skill gaps, necessitating a more structured approach to skills development.
With 66% of music jobs lost during the pandemic, the industry is grappling with significant job losses and knowledge gaps. The decline of experienced professionals has heightened the urgency for structured mentoring programs to transfer essential skills and expertise.
Despite the challenges, there is a concerted effort to upskill and support Victorian music professionals. The VMDO has been proactive in providing financial assistance, expert advice, and capacity-building opportunities to nurture a resilient and competent workforce.
Looking ahead, the VMDO plans to expand its training programs and mentoring initiatives to empower music professionals with the necessary skills and experiences to thrive in a dynamic and competitive industry.