What is an independent producer?

In the performing arts sector, the role and scope of the producer can vary from project to project. Producers support creatives to develop their work and to grow their career, profile, business or practice over the long term.

Producers also work with creatives to coordinate tours, undertake community and stakeholder engagement and market or sell work. Independent producers work with several artists and creatives, as opposed to a producer who works within a company or organisation.

When are the programs open for application?

The programs are not currently open for application. Creative Victoria and delivery partner Theatre Network Australia will share information about the next rounds when available. How was the initiative developed?

The initiative was designed in consultation with a range of representatives from the independent performing arts sector - producers, artists, small companies - and other key stakeholders including Theatre Network Australia and the Australian Performing Arts Market.

How does the Producers Mentorship Program work?

This program calls for joint applications from an emerging or early career producer and the established producer/s they plan to work with and learn from. The emerging or early career producer is paid a salary, and the ‘host’ producer is paid a fee. The mentorships are part time and can be flexible. The program also covers access costs such as Auslan interpreters and access requirements.

What are the Unlocking Capacity grants?

This stream provides multi-year funding to support targeted skills and capacity development for established independent producers. The program is open to applicants who demonstrate a track record of sustaining an independent practice for a minimum of three years.

To apply, you must present a work plan that outlines how funding will ‘unlock’ your capacity over a two to three-year period, the expected outcomes for your practice and the outcomes for the creatives you work with, and the broader performing arts sector.

Theatre Network Australia is the point of contact for the program and the application process and grant administration is managed by Creative Victoria. Guidelines for the Unlocking Capacity program, including the application process, the closing date, the number and funding level of grants on offer, are available on the Creative Victoria Unlocking Capacity webpage.

What is the Salon Series?

The Salon Series is a free events program, run by Theatre Network Australia, that brings together groups of people involved in the Producers Mentorship and Unlocking Capacity programs as well as other independent producers, aspiring producers, and artists and companies. These events and activities provide peer learning, support and networking.

The program also includes coaching sessions – free one-on-one support where creatives are matched with an experienced producer to discuss career planning, business planning, work-life balance support or networking advice.

Who is eligible?

The initiative primarily supports emerging and established Victorian independent producers from the performing arts sector, and - through them - performing arts creatives and companies who practise independently in Victoria.

While it’s open to all, the initiative focuses on developing the skills of producers who identify as First Peoples, culturally and linguistically diverse, and/or with disability as well as those living in regional Victoria.

How can I find out more?

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