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Challenges and frustrations for Indigenous Australians participating in the recording sector
Journal article   Peer reviewed

Challenges and frustrations for Indigenous Australians participating in the recording sector

Lachlan Goold, Kev Starkey, Briony Luttrell and Andy Ward
Perfect Beat, Vol.23(1), pp.26-49
2026
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1558/pb.34246

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Abstract

Music technology and recording Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander music and performing arts equity in recording studios First Nations music producers recording infrastructure cultural safety in recording studios discrimination in the music industry
This research explores the barriers to entry and the challenges and frustrations for Australian First Nations music producers. The proliferation of software-based technology in the recording studio sector resulted in notions of technological democracy. However, this democratization is often contested for not including women and various marginalized and minority groups. Through an Indigenous-led music production workshop project, the research team conducted daily yarning sessions at the conclusion of each day. The findings found many challenges and frustrations for the participants and mentors in the program as they attempted to participate in the recording sector including access to suitable housing and infrastructure, agency and cultural safety in recording studios, ongoing discrimination in the music industry, and lateral violence and jealousy around perceived success. This project seeks to understand these barriers and look toward approaches to improve education, diversity, equity, inclusion and participation for First Nations music producers.

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