Opening doors to careers in music and live events
The RJED program is creating opportunities, building skills and supporting meaningful careers in the arts sector.
Joseph Shannon is a proud Warlpiri man who was born and raised in Tennant Creek and has experienced many highlights working in his job with Barkly Regional Arts (BRA). Joseph has worked at WOMADelaide festival in Adelaide, been at the Triple J One Night Stand Festival in Griffith and has done stage production at the National Indigenous Music Awards.
Joseph has been involved with Barkly Regional Arts in various ways since he did work experience with them at school.
Through the Remote Jobs and Economic Development (RJED) program, he’s worked in stage set-up and production, taught guitar to young enthusiasts and played with various bands who recorded at the BRA’s Winanjjikari Music Centre.
Joseph formally started a job with them under the New Jobs Program Trial, with his role then transitioned over to be funded through the RJED program.
“I’ve become confident with running sound for events, had lots of experience with stage production and running the studio for recording music,” says Joseph.
Joseph has been interested in all things music since the time he could talk. He picked up a guitar at the age of five, becoming a multi-instrumentalist before turning 10, and now he plays the guitar, keyboard and drums confidently.
He began his job wanting to learn more about the technical side of music and has now gained skills in recording and mixing.
“Having a long-term job means I am able to provide for my family and myself,” he shares.
The experiences he’s been able to access have broadened his horizons.
“After working with Balya production for the Triple J One Night Stand festival, I want to work at bigger festivals both interstate and overseas.”
When Joseph isn't on stage production duty, he's accompanying performers on stage, playing drums and guitar.
BRA provides support and opportunities for artists and musicians across the Barkly region. New employees funded through the RJED program are developing skills in community engagement, production, training and knowledge transfer for local First Nations people working with recognised and/or unique art and music cultural assets.
Round 4 of the RJED program opened on 28 October 2026 and will close on 17 March 2027. Around 800 jobs are expected to be created through this grant round.
Find out more: niaa.gov.au/employers