Culture Awareness Training for our Music Industry
Presented by Make Music Matter: our MP Music Industry initiative.
As part of the Shire’s commitment to building a stronger, more inclusive local music scene, this Cultural Awareness Training session is an opportunity for music professionals to deepen their understanding of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures and histories.
Date: Friday 4 July 2025
Time: 3:30pm – 6:00pm
Venue: Flinders Civic Hall
Cost: Free - Limited spots available and light catering provided.
Who should attend: Music venues, professionals, and event organisers.
Led by Jillian West, a proud Bunurong and Palawa woman, and her niece Alexandra Prouse, the session will support participants to engage respectfully and meaningfully with First Nations communities, artists, and audiences.
About the Facilitators
Jillian West brings over 20 years of experience supporting Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people through employment, education, and community development. A respected cultural educator, Jillian continues the legacy of her father, the late Japanangka Errol West, a renowned Aboriginal academic and "education warrior."
Alexandra Prouse works alongside her Aunty Jillian, carrying forward her family’s commitment to cultural learning and sharing. Together, they create an engaging, warm, and insightful learning environment.
Key Learning Areas
• Cultural context: past and present impacts on First Nations communities
• Culturally respectful communication and practice
• Addressing stereotypes and misconceptions
• Building inclusive and culturally safe music environments
Why Attend?
This training supports the goals of the Music Plan by empowering local venues, artists, and industry workers to create culturally safe spaces and relationships. Attendees will leave with practical tools and knowledge to foster meaningful change across the music sector.
Delivered as part of the Mornington Peninsula Shire’s Music Plan.
Together, we can MAKE MUSIC MATTER.