Sounds Australia Names New Domestic Development Role

Former Renew Adelaide CEO Dr Ianto Ware has been appointed National Live Music Coordinator for Sounds Australia, with the newly-created role giving the government-funded export initiative a domestic focus.

Dr Ware, who has promoted fringe festivals and worked in with urban youth and social studies, will look to develop and support live music venues in Australia through the role. It is hoped that such support will subsequently aid the export abilities of local artists.

The appointment was announced today by Federal Arts Minister Simon Crean who said the position was part of the funding allocated in the 2011/12 Budget.

Australia Council's Acting CEO Libby Christie said today, “This new position allows it to focus on the domestic music landscape – local artists, venues and industry – to support a robust Australian live music scene. We're excited to see this industry partnership expand.”

Dr Ware added that he was “thrilled to take on a job that will allow me to give back to the Australian local music scene.”

Stakeholders in the contemporary music – and wider creative industries – are also awaiting the release of the National Cultural Policy. The policy is believed to be finished but the Minister's office is still awaiting funding to release it. At a Melbourne press conference in November, Crean admitted that he didn't have an ETA on the policy, adding, “I'm ready to go, I just need some money.”