The Producers Mentorship Program ran from 2019–2022, with three cohort rounds. Each round ran in a slightly different way responding to the needs and commitments of the sector.

Selected participants were people with some producing experience in the performing arts and who wanted to be part of a group learning environment. Priority was given to our target groups, in alignment with the objectives of the program.

For Round 2 and 2, monthly professional development topics were co-designed with the cohort, with the group sessions forming the core learning units. The sessions were taught, facilitated, and led by practitioners and participants. In addition to these monthly group sessions, participants worked on their own projects.

Fees and Time Commitments

Participants were employees of TNA, employed to work 2 days a week (0.4EFT), and each received a total of $21,840 gross per annum. This was based on a full time equivalent salary of $54,600 gross per annum. Payments were made fortnightly in arrears.

On-costs (superannuation and work cover, which TNA administered on their behalf) were paid on top of this.

The minimum time commitment we asked of all participants to the program was 8 days per month, for a 12-month period, inclusive of the monthly group sessions.

Mental Health, Internet and Access Needs

In response to industry feedback about the support role that producers play generally, and in recognition that producers play a vital role in rebuilding the sector in the wake of the pandemic, the program also offered participants budget to access mental health support, at a rate of $100 per person, per month, for a 12-month period.

Participants received a monthly subsidy towards internet connection and data allowance, set at $40 per person, per month, for a 12-month period.

On a needs basis, participants were able to access VIPI funds to support access and specialized skills and mentorships. Access could include Auslan interpreting, purchase of essential equipment, transport costs, childcare. Specialized skills and mentorships could include First Peoples mentoring support, support by Disabled mentors and so on.

Read more about all of the producers and participants supported in the Producer Mentorship Program.