The music industry has undergone significant transformations in recent years, and to stay relevant, it is essential for policymakers, industry professionals, and academics to be informed about the latest trends, research, and insights. The State Government-funded Victoria Music Development Office (VMDO) has responded to this need by curating the inaugural Music and Data Insight Summit, which will take place from 28-29 April at Collingwood Yards.

“The VMDO is pleased to present our new summit and know it will be a thought-provoking and illuminating catalyst for new ideas to inspire and inform music professionals, academics, governments, and others,” says VMDO General Manager, Kirsty Rivers. This summit is one of many events and research presentations that VMDO compiles to elevate the industry and support workers.

Understanding the Inspiration Behind the VMDO Summit

Rivers explains that the inspiration for the VMDO’s new summit lies in the need for policymakers, regulators, and investors to remain current and relevant in their decision-making.

“It is essential that we understand the latest music industry research, trends, and insights, so that policies, regulation, and investment that affect the sector remain current and relevant,” she says.

Summit Highlights: Day 1

• Mon 28 April, Reflections from Lauren Mullings, CEO/Creative Director of Multicultural Arts Victoria, and Leah Avene from Co Culture Communication will explore how music workers of colour are driving industry change with resilience.
• Using data, storytelling, and collaboration, Green Music Australia CEO Berish Bilander and Miranda Nicol from Untitled Group will discuss how festivals and the music industry can form responses to emerging challenges.
• Nicholas Pickard of APRA AMCOS will moderate a panel of Australia’s key musical policymakers as they unpack the question of how data influences change.
• A debate will explore the power of using musical data versus working with a vibe. Artist Robert Baxter from Australian youth music organisation The Push will guide the discussion between Team Data and Team Vibe.

Summit Highlights: Day 2

• Tue 29 April, Tim Kelly will use the ARIA chart and revenue data to explore streaming economics while UK-based music strategist Chris Carey will discuss how streaming’s slow-money economy is affecting development in artists.
• Music Australia is set to launch the first Listening In report: ‘Insights on live music attendance’.