First Indigenous broadcasting agreement

The Minister for Family and Community Services, Senator Nigel Scullion, signed a Shared Responsibility Agreement (SRA) with Radio Station 3KND at the new South East Indigenous Media Association (SEIMA) broadcasting facility today.

‘The Agreement is a first for Australia and the Indigenous Broadcasting Program through the Department of Communications, Information Technology and the Arts (DCITA).

‘It aims to support 3KND to develop a state of the art Indigenous broadcasting facility,’ Senator Scullion said.

‘Indigenous people in Victoria will have access to high quality best practice broadcasting capability.

‘As the Agreement develops it will also give direct opportunities to high achieving Indigenous teenagers to train and qualify in the Certificate II in Indigenous Broadcasting, and to model their drive and achievements with their peers.

‘It is an agreement between Indigenous community partners, represented by SEIMA and the Government.

‘It shares responsibility for improving outcomes in what is important: preserving and developing Indigenous culture, supporting and developing kids and building expertise.

‘The Howard government is providing $180,000. Other partners are contributing expertise in accredited training and enhanced community access.

‘Victoria has a significant and vibrant Indigenous community. This Agreement supports community endeavour and will increase their participation and ability to communicate developments and maintenance of their culture.’