Aus Music Industry Launches Survey On Sexual Harm, Harassment & Discrimination

Sexual harm, sexual harassment and systemic discrimination within the Australian music industry are the focus of a national survey launched today.

The survey for music industry professionals to have their say is part of the first of its kind Music Industry Review, which launched earlier this year and also includes interviews and focus groups.

Spearheaded by Temporary Working Group and supported by APRA AMCOS, ARIA, PPCA, Australia Council and Support Act, The Review aims to “identify the nature and extent of the key issues facing the music industry and determine what needs to be done to create positive and sustainable change”.

“The results of the survey will allow everyone in the music industry to understand the lived experiences of many music professionals,” lead consultant Alex Shehadie said.

“This is the first step towards developing meaningful strategies to address the risks that can lead to sexual harm, sexual harassment, and systemic discrimination, and to ensuring that everyone in the music industry can thrive.”

A spokesperson from the Working Group added: "This is the first time the Australian contemporary music industry has come together to quantify the prevalence of these issues, and it is happening at a crucial time in our history.

“This survey gives all music professionals the opportunity to contribute to the Review regardless of whether participants have a story or incident to share.

“Every perspective counts. We encourage everyone to get involved, and be an active participant in setting new standards for the music industry and shaping our future.”

The survey is confidential and can be completed anonymously, with the team behind it stating that “the privacy of all participants is paramount and all information collected will not be identifiable”.

The survey will remain open until June 20, with a report and recommendations for reform published at the end of August.

For more details and to complete the survey, click here. For more information about the Music Industry Review, click here.

If you are suffering from any of the issues that have been discussed or need assistance, please contact Lifeline on 13 11 14 or Beyond Blue on 1300 22 4636.