Indigenous Remote Communications Association Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders Corporation
ABN 734 135 503 24
2/70 Elder Street PO Box 2731 Alice Springs NT 0871
P 08 8952 6465 F 08 8992 9669 M 0437 798 076
E [email protected] www.irca.net.au www.indigitube.com.au
IRCAaustralia
@IRCAaustralia
IRCA acknowledges the traditional custodians of the lands on which we work. We pay respect to Elders past, present and future.
IRCA acknowledges the support of the Department of Prime Minister and Cabinet and the Community Broadcasting Foundation. Chairperson Report GM Report
West and Kirstie Parker. Thank you all – it’s been a • Opening of new national membership in four pleasure working with you. categories, with 166 members joined to date • Election of new Board of Directors under new A highlight for me was the CONVERGE National Constitution at CONVERGE Summit Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Media Summit • Launch of a draft Strategic Plan for the new peak in Alice Springs in May. This was an opportunity body in October 2016 for the national industry to come together to • Development of new policies for IRCA Operations, develop a shared vision and policy direction in a Board and membership convergent era. We acknowledged the pioneers • Publication of monthly e-newsletter, plus regular web who helped develop our media industry, discussed and social media posts and press releases about our values, and shared our achievements and our key activities challenges. We have come a long way in the last • Development of IndigiTUBE radio streaming app 2016/17 was the first year of IRCA’s transition to 40 years, but there is still much work to be done Over the last year, IRCA’s Board, staff and member- plus 12 individual members station apps national peak body for Aboriginal and Torres to get the recognition and funding support our ship have come to appreciate the meaning of the • Completion of pilot year of the inDigiMOB Digital Strait islander media. We’re proud of what we’ve industry deserves. While our sector is very diverse, term ‘change management’. Not only has IRCA Mentors project achieved. Thanks to all our remote, regional this progress will only be achieved by working expanded its role to become the national peak • Advocated to COAG for Indigenous Digital Inclusion and urban members and stakeholders for your together. body, but the whole industry is experiencing a to become a Closing the Gap measure. involvement, input and support through this period of change with convergence and techno- process. As my four-year term was up, I did not re-stand for logical advances, funding and income challenges, We also held three successful events for industry the IRCA Board in May. I would like to congratulate and the different needs of our expanding audienc- development and knowledge sharing: There’s been a lot of big changes for IRCA this the new Board members and Dot West on her es. • 18th National Remote Indigenous Media Festival, co- year – a revised Constitution with a change to appointment as the new IRCA Chairperson, and hosted with TEABBA, in Yirrkala, September 2016, with organisational voting membership, new structure wish them all the best going forward. I know they IRCA has been working hard to effectively navi- over 160 delegates attending and functions for IRCA, and a new Strategic Plan will continue to ensure IRCA provides a powerful gate the challenges, identify new opportunities, • CONVERGE Summit in Alice Springs, May 2017, our aimed at supporting industry development for and effective voice for the whole Aboriginal and and support innovation and industry development. first national industry event our expanded national membership. The new Torres Strait Islander broadcasting, media and Now more than ever it is important for the industry • Broadband for the Bush Indigenous Focus Day in Constitution was approved at a General Meeting communications industry. to have a unified voice, a clear direction, and a Fremantle in June 2017. at the Remote Media Festival in Yirrkala in late willingness to embrace change while maintaining September 2016 and approved by ORIC in October John “Tadam’ Lockyer the values that define our sector. Thanks to the IRCA Board and staff for a huge effort 2016. We now have 166 members across our four Chairperson over the last year, as well as our membership and membership categories. IRCA has now completed its first year of the transi- stakeholders for their support and engagement. The tion to national peak body, while maintaining our positive feedback from the sector has helped make I’d like to acknowledge the hard work and support for the remote sector. IRCA has expanded the efforts worthwhile. We look forward to working commitment of my fellow Board members its services, events and activities to support our together to support the ongoing development of a throughout the transition process. The Board had nation-wide Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander vibrant and resilient industry into the future. three face to face planning meetings and five broadcasting and media industry, with more to other Board meetings in 2016/17. The IRCA Board come in the year ahead. Daniel Featherstone included Sylvia Tabua (Secretary), Karl Hampton General Manager (Treasurer), Simon Japangardi Fisher, Gilmore In 2016/17 we achieved the following outcomes: Johnston, Daisy O’Byrne, and from August 2016, Dot • Development of a new Constitution and national membership structure
2 Indigenous Remote Communications Association Annual Report 2016-17 3 About IRCA AND OUR INDUSTRY About the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander broadcasting and media INDUSTRY About Indigenous Remote Communications Association
Indigenous Remote Communications Association (IRCA) is evolving from its community broadcasting origins into Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander media organisations is the peak body for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander an expansive and convergent industry. are not-for-profit community organisations providing broadcasting, media and communications. Founded a primary and essential service to their communities. in 2001 as the peak body for remote Indigenous media While broadcasting remains the core media activity, The radio services currently reach nearly 50% of the and communications, we undertook a structural we acknowledge that the industry has diversified Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander population, with the change and expanded our membership and role to significantly and embrace all the mediums and aim of reaching all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander become the national peak body in 2016/2017. platforms used to communicate, connect and share peoples in the future. knowledge; radio, film, TV, print, online and mobile. Up to 105 Remote Indigenous Broadcasting Services Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander broadcasters (RIBS), 8 Remote Indigenous Media Organisations IRCA recognises that media practice has an historical and media producers also connect non-Indigenous (RIMOs) and 28 urban and regional Aboriginal and and proven role in the maintenance of language and communities with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Torres Strait Islander radio services are now eligible for culture, self-representation, community development people and culture, developing greater understanding representation by IRCA. and cultural safety. Committed to the development of and building stronger relationships. our industry, we provide forums, networks and resources IRCA recognises the diversity within our industry. We to support Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander media The industry: • Is a multimillion dollar industry with over 35 Aboriginal have worked closely with our stakeholders to determine organisations and workers to upskill and build their • Comprises: and Torres Strait Islander community owned and appropriate membership, governance and support capacity. - Radio services able to reach around 320,000 managed not for profit media organisations. structures for our new national representation. Our draft Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander persons, • Has the capacity to be a preferred supplier for all Strategic Plan 2016-19 was launched in October 2016 for Our activities also include regular newsletters and including around 100,000 very hard to reach government messaging to our communities. feedback on our role and function as a national peak industry updates, networking events and meetings, people in remote Indigenous communities, or • Is the most relevant and appropriate service with the body and the services we deliver to our members. annual awards, policy development, research and data approximately 47% of the Australian Aboriginal highest listenership, community engagement and collection, content sharing, and industry promotions. We and Torres Strait Islander population. local ownership of all media services. Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander managed media continue to advocate for digital inclusion and access to - A regional satellite TV service reaching 240,000 • Is delivered in the first language of many remote and communications are an essential service in our relevant media services in our communities nationally. remote households and a free to air national TV peoples. communities. They provide access to locally relevant While we all work in different ways and different places service. • In remote communities, is the most reliable and information services, support health and wellbeing, across Australia, it is important to work together toward - Over 230 radio broadcast sites across Australia. ubiquitous radio and media service. provide meaningful employment and skills, strengthen innovative solutions for the challenges faced by our cultural identity and support social and economic media industry. Together we can build a powerful and development. Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander media connected vision for generations to come.
Our ision Our alues IRCA will continue to value: A powerful and connected Aboriginal and Torres Strait Culture and language STRUCTURE & STRATEGIC Our Purpose Collaborations and partnerships FUNCTIONS PLAN 2016-2019 Islander broadcasting, To represent, advocate and Local knowledge and expertise media and communications support the Aboriginal and Innovation industry valued by all Torres Strait Islander Opportunity building Australians Diversity broadcasting, media and Commitment communications industry Achievement Partnership Accountability Transparency Ethical conduct
Representation Member Services Governance and planning, Policy & Research Inform, support and assist Industry Development Promotion & Networking advocacy, consultation, needs Policy development, membership with a range Working groups and projects Industry conferences, analysis, sector promotion, data collection, R&D, of services that build to address key sector issues. Festivals, Showcase events, partnerships audience surveys. capacity and resources Awards presentations for the future.
Our Aims and Strategies Become a national representative ody Develop a sustaina le ro ust industry Support connected and creative A original and that delivers outcomes Torres Strait Islander people, communities and • Share expertise and knowledge organisations Employment and Other membership Grow membership Find common solutions and support skills development driven projects Create effective partnerships Grow business capacity Create opportunities and jobs Business development Understand and respond to sector needs Develop innovative responses to challenges Content Technology and planning development and opportunities and innovation Research solutions and sharing Ensure unity of priorities Form value adding partnerships Access right audiences using platforms Develop infrastructure in creative industries and messages Be a platform for opportunity across the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander media industry
4 Indigenous Remote Communications Association Annual Report 2016-17 5 Converge
NATIONAL INDUSTRY SUMMIT
apurte irretye-ke iwerre anyente-le IRCA acknowledges all the Aboriginal and Torres – moving in one direction Strait Islander media organisations and workers who gave their time and energy to be at Converge. Meeting together and moving in one direction to In the local Arrernte language of Mbantua (Alice help forge the way for our industry and update the Springs), apurte irretye-ke iwerre anyente-le policies that guide development from the grass translates as ‘meeting together and moving in one roots, setting the role and direction for IRCA as the direction’ new national peak body. Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander media workers Thank you to our sponsors Community Broadcasting and organisations from across Australia met up at Foundation, Centrecorp Foundation and Central CONVERGE, the national media summit in Alice Australian Aboriginal Media Association (CAAMA). Springs from 22-24 May 2017. Older and new generations shared their experiences, histories and dreams for the future, connecting the remote, THE EVENT regional and urban media family. CONVERGE was • 25 organisations represented IRCA’s first gathering in our new role as national • 64 delegates peak body. • 20 speakers • 4 forums The delegates came together to determine the directions needed for the maintenance and growth Our Media of the vital work of the Aboriginal and Torres Strait • 34 value statements Islander media industry. Forum Facilitator and • 42 case studies industry pioneer Dot West said “It was great to see
so many of our media organisations from across the country represented at CONVERGE. Everyone Industry SWOT analysis worked together constructively towards building a • 25 identified strengths new policy agenda and direction for our industry • 25 identified weaknesses – showing how we can achieve unity through • 19 identified opportunities diversity.” • 12 identified threats
The summit was held at the DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel in Mbantua (Alice Springs). The Monday night irca.net.au/converge Opening Ceremony, led by local Elder Kumalie Riley, welcomed all delegates to celebrate the rich culture of Eastern and Central Arrernte. Throughout CONVERGE the pioneers of the industry were celebrated and acknowledged for their hard work over the past 40 years in the struggle for the rights of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders to create their own media – to have their voices heard on the airwaves, their faces and stories on film and TV, their journalism and images in print and online.
Based on delegate input at CONVERGE, a Communique to Government was developed. This outlined the key messages about our industry’s value, as well as shared member concerns about the decline in funding and consequent challenges to deliver essential services, meet audience needs and migrate to new technologies. The Activities and Outcomes Report presents the highlights of CONVERGE and the directions needed for the maintenance and growth of our national media industry.
6 Indigenous Remote Communications Association Annual Report 2016-17 7 18NRIMF
The National Remote Indigenous Media Festival Indigenous Community Television, Screen Australia, is an annual industry event for remote Aboriginal Australian Film, Television and Radio School, and Torres Strait Islander media organisations and Australian Broadcasting Corporation, Foundation workers. The Festival celebrates remote media for Rural and Regional Renewal, AS Plum, Brian achievements and builds capacity with its strong Tucker Accounting, Rio Tinto Alcan, Sodexo and media skills development focus. community organisations.
The 18th NRIMF was held in the community of THE EVENT Yirrkala on Yolngu Country in the Northern Territory, • 5 days with the theme Our Stories from the Home of Land • 160 delegates Rights. Delegates were welcomed to saltwater • 31 organisations represented country by the Rirratjingu clan with a Bunggul • 5 industry forums (ceremony) featuring songmen and dancers • 6 stakeholder meetings from across the Arnhem Land region. ABC Sports • 4 outdoor cinema nights Broadcaster, Charlie King, and CEO of the National • 6 skills workshops Centre for Indigenous Excellence, Kirstie Parker,
delivered keynote addresses to the delegates describing the positive impact of broadcasting in workshops breaking down barriers, addressing social issues, • 62 trainees building career pathways and empowering people • 53 Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander to tell their stories. The workshop outcomes were trainees (85%) presented at the end of the week, demonstrating • 34 female trainees (55%) the technical skills, creativity and positive • 28 male trainees (45%) storytelling that are hallmarks of the industry.
The evenings were alive with local culture and talent, movies and music. The remote media industry awards were presented throughout the week, recognising the significant talent and commitment in our sector. Indigenous Community Television (ICTV) managed the Festival screenings of community produced media from across remote Australia. The opening night saw the screening of Arnhem Land stories by local media organisations ARDS and Mulka project, and a showcase night of remote productions made for national broadcast on NITV. The Festival concluded with an epic night of cultural richness, performance and music, including Yirrmal, East Journey, Gawurra, Shelley Morris, Bara Band and Yothu Yindi.
The Festival Pictorial Magazine showcased the stories, photos and reports of the event. The music clip for ‘Positive Messages’, the song produced by the Music and Recording workshop, provides a lively record of the event (vimeo.com/221381390).
Thank you to co-host Top End Aboriginal Bush Broadcasting Association (TEABBA), partners Rirratjingu Aboriginal Corporation, Aboriginal Resource and Development Services, The Mulka Project and East Arnhem Regional Council, and sponsors Community Broadcasting Foundation, Screen Territory, National Indigenous Television,
8 Indigenous Remote Communications Association Annual Report 2016-17 9 Broadband for the Bush
Attended by over 150 delegates, it featured presentations from government, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander groups, research organisations, telecommunications companies, technology innovators, not-for-profit organisations and the broader commercial sector across four streams- Digital inclusion, Regional Innovation, Technology and Policy. Broadband for the Bush Forum. The Forum renewed its call for the development IRCA advocates for fast, accessible, affordable Key focus of the B4BA and adoption of a Remote Telecommunications and reliable telecommunications, information and 1. The expansion of mobile coverage Strategy, the development of an Indigenous Digital communication technology access for remote 2. Getting digital infrastructure right – both the Inclusion Program and that Indigenous Digital Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities. rational use of existing infrastructure and Inclusion be adopted by the Council of Australian expanding infrastructure Governments (COAG) as a key performance IRCA’s activities include: 3. Smart last mile solutions for small towns and measure within the Closing the Gap Framework. • Collating data on broadband and communities IRCA is enacting this with letters to all COAG telecommunications infrastructure and access 4. Affordable pricing for telecommunications members. in remote Indigenous communities 5. Improved digital literacy • Promoting the development of a Remote 6. Good research to underpin remote The full list of recommendations, the Communique, Communications Infrastructure Plan for remote communications policy presentations and media releases are available on Australia 7. Improving Indigenous communications programs. the B4B Alliance website (broadbandforthebush. • Informing policy direction for remote area com.au). telecommunications Broadband for • Keeping informed of best practice infrastructure the Bush Forum Indigenous Focus Day opportunities, particularly in relation to the The Indigenous Focus Day is an annual invite- The B4B Alliance hosts an annual forum to address testing of WiFi mesh, mobile technologies and only event hosted by IRCA and the Australian the issues of internet connectivity in regional, rural other technical solutions Communications Consumer Action Network and remote Australia. • Member of the Broadband for the Bush Alliance (ACCAN) prior to the B4B Forum. It promotes digital (B4BA), undertaking projects and research with inclusion projects and addresses the opportunities The 6th forum Remote, Connected and Savvy! was Alliance stakeholders for, and obstacles to, the digital inclusion of remote held in Fremantle from 22-23 June. • Representation on the ACMA Consumer Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people and Christine Ross, IFD 2017 Facilitator Consultative Forum, B4BA Board, and ACCAN organisations. Indigenous Advisory Group. THE EVENT • 75 participants Broadband for As part of the 6th forum, within the broad agenda • 12 presentations the Bush Alliance of ‘digital inclusion’, the Indigenous Focus Day • 4 workshop sessions on: provided space for yarning and sharing; and o Obstacles - Identified key obstacles to digital IRCA is a member of the Broadband for the Bush drawing conclusions on what ideas need to be inclusion Alliance (B4BA), a not-for-profit organisation advocated for prior to the forum. The day was o Solutions - Proposed targeted strategies and speaking for the digital needs of remote regions facilitated by Christine Ross, an Arrernte/Kaytetye projects and seeks to advance the digital capacity and desert woman. o Policy Plan - Advocacy plans to address key capability for those who work and live in remote obstacles Australia. The Key Outcomes Report provides an overview of o Action Plan - key actions to promote
the presentations and the action plan (available at Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander digital irca.net.au). inclusion
10 Indigenous Remote Communications Association Annual Report 2016-17 11 Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Media and Communications in Australia
Indigenous Remote Regional radio broadcasters Communications Association Bidjara Media and Broadcasting Company Ltd, Alice Springs NT, IRCA Charleville QLD, 4RRFM
Bumma Bippera Media, RIMOs and RIBS Cairns QLD, Bumma Bippera radio broadcasters Central Queensland Aboriginal Corporation for Media, Central Australian Aboriginal Media Rockhampton QLD, 4US Association NT 8KIN Cherbourg Aboriginal Multimedia and Resource Ngaanyatjarra Media WA, 5NGM Association. Cherbourg, QLD Radio US MOB
Pilbara and Kimberley Aboriginal Media Goolarri Media Enterprises, WA, PAKAM Radio Broome WA, 6GME
PAW Media and Communications Mackay and District Aboriginal and Islander Media NT, 8PAW Association, Mackay QLD, Murri FM
Pitjantjatjara Yankunytjatjara Media Mid North Coast Indigenous Broadcasters Association, SA, 5NPY Taree NSW, 2TLP Ngarralinyi
Queensland Remote Aboriginal Midwest Aboriginal Media Association. Media QLD, Black Star Radio Geraldton and Carnarvon WA, Radio MAMA
Top End Aboriginal Bush Broadcasting Mt Isa Aboriginal Media Association, Association NT, TEABBA Radio Mt Isa QLD, 4MOB
Torres Strait Islander Media Association Muda Aboriginal Corporation, TSI, 4MW Bourke NSW, 2CUZ
Murdi Paaki Regional Enterprise Corporation, Wilcannia NSW, Wilcannia River Radio Remote radio broadcasters Queensland Police-Citizens Welfare Association, Aboriginal Resource and Development Palm Island QLD, Palm Island Radio Service, Arnhem Land NT, Yolnju Radio Tjuma Pulka (Media) Aboriginal Corporation, Derby Aboriginal Media , Kalgoorlie WA, Tjuma Radio Derby WA, 6DBY Townsville Radio 4K1G Aboriginal and Torres Strait Ngaarda Media Aboriginal Corporation, Islander Corp., Townsville QLD, 4K1G Roebourne WA, Ngaarda Radio Umeewarra Aboriginal Media Association Inc., Puranyangu-Rangka Kerrem Aboriginal Port Augusta, Umeewarra Radio Corporation, Halls Creek WA, 6PRK
Wangki Yupurnanupurri Aboriginal Corporation, Fitzroy Crossing WA, Wangki Radio Television broadcasters
Waringarri Media Aborigjnal Corporation, Aboriginal Broadcasting Australia, Kununurra WA, 6WR Darwin NT, Aboriginal TV Channel 4
Goolarri Media Enterprises, Broome WA, GTV
Urban radio broadcasters Indigenous Community Television, Alice Springs NT, ICTV Aboriginal Broadcasting Australia, Darwin NT, Radio Larrakia National Indigenous Television, Sydney NSW, NITV Brisbane Indigenous Media Association, Brisbane, 4AAA/98.9
Gadigal Information Service Aboriginal Corporation, Sydney, NSW, 2LND/Koori Radio
Noongar Media Enterprises, Perth WA, Noongar Radio
Nunga Wangga Aboriginal Corporation, Adelaide SA, Broadcast through Radio Adelaide
South Eastern Indigenous Media, Melbourne VIC, 3KND InDigiMOB
The inDigiMOB project is a partnership between - The effectiveness of building on existing activities Telstra and IRCA improving digital inclusion for particularly where this supports community led Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people living in initiatives remote communities across the Northern Territory. - Individual needs – to setup email accounts, It provides a suite of flexible resources, technical, manage passwords, print materials, navigate training and infrastructure support that community heavy text sites – must be balanced alongside based organisations and individuals can access group activities and use according to their diverse needs and - Flexible approaches to the employment contexts. Ultimately the goal of the inDigiMOB and engagement of local digital mentors is project is to support the engagement and necessary to in order to effectively negotiate professional development of local digital mentors cultural and work obligations who can, with support, facilitate improved digital - Broader issues such as cyber safety, privacy, literacy skills and peer to peer learning across their consumer rights and contract management are communities. critical aspects of digital inclusion - Resolving connectivity and access issues at the The inDigiMOB project pilot phase commenced outset of any program is important and ongoing in 2016 with programs commencing at Arlparra technical support underwrites program activities community in association with Batchelor Institute and participant satisfaction. Phase 2 of inDigiMOB launch and in four Town Camp communities in association Embedded sites – where inDigiMOB partners with content. This approach supports the professional with Tangentyere Council. An evaluation of the During the first half of 2017 the Town Camps and a community based organisation engage local development of mentors and embeds skills locally. pilot was undertaken in December 2016 that Arlparra moved from the pilot to the sustainability digital mentors and roll-out activities. It is anticipated that communities will upload other assessed the relevance, effectiveness, efficiency, phase. Digital mentors were identified and are digital products of interest to their communities to impact and sustainability of the program. Each of progressively being upskilled and immersed Targeted sites – where workshops and activities are encourage use of the App. the pilot sites were different, reflecting different in delivering program activities. A third site, delivered into a community on a scheduled basis. language groups, skill levels, facilities, infrastructure Yuendumu, in partnership with PAW Media, has NT internet access Map and interests. The diverse activities undertaken been established and outreach to the adjacent Access sites – where resources such as the Currently the website hosts a map of NT internet reflect this. Similarly, the participant reach was community of Yuelumu is envisaged. inDigiMOB App can be accessed and utilised by access. This map has been sent to interested parties broad, yet fluid, with some 45 Town Camp residents residents and organisations alike. (such as CAYLUS) who are assisting with data and participating per day in activities at the four sites A community engagement and feasibility anecdotal information. It is envisaged that this over a six-month period and up to 40 participants assessment ‘Roadshow’ was undertaken during Digital and Online map will become a useful resource to community per day at Arlparra. Key learnings from the April and May. The inDigiMOB Roadshow team members for what services are available in the evaluation were: travelled to eight NT communities to meet with Platforms communities in which they live as well as where community based organisations and individuals The inDigiMOB App has been developed and they might visit (such as for Sports Weekends). The and assess their interest and capacity in being host is ready for release. The inDigiMOB website has anecdotal information is important as even though sites for the InDigiMOB project. The engagement also been established and is ready for content. a service might exist at a location, it may not be and scoping work comprised: It is envisaged that both the App and website active or might have difficult access. This mapping will act as a portal for community access to vital also assists the many interested parties who are - identifying local facilities, existing connectivity information and ‘how to’ guides. inDigiMOB support looking for gaps in internet service delivery and and local interest workers and inDigiMOB mentors will have a key access. - delivering digital skills workshops to community task in the development of local resources for participants, where possible, to give a tangible upload to both the App and website facilitating the introduction to the inDigiMOB project and development of in-language audio guides to visual gauge priority issues for the community - deliver site reports to inform additional site selection and planning, as well as problem solve any connectivity or data issues.
Over 200 community residents across the eight sites participated in the digital skills workshops delivered. The strategy for Year Two has been revised based on the information gathered during the Roadshow and will seek to engage a larger number of communities through more flexible models of participation. These models are: inDigiMOB program delivery
14 Indigenous Remote Communications Association Annual Report 2016-17 15 Sector online Platforms AUDIENCE SURVEY
We have increased the reach of our website, APPS AND WEBSITES newsletter and social media platforms significantly. Assisted by a Community Broadcasting Foundation 91% 80% 91% 91% (CBF) grant, IRCA worked with PAW Media, PY SOCIAL MEDIA Media and PAKAM to self-host their radio streaming of Aboriginal and of Aboriginal and of Aboriginal and of Aboriginal and services, and visited TSIMA on Thursday Island Torres Strait Islander Torres Strait Islander Torres Strait Islander Torres Strait Islander to establish a new website and radio streaming remote community remote community remote community radio is the preferred IRCA Facebook page increased service. members listen to members are weekly members are regular source for news from 1,994 to 2,332 likes. remote Indigenous listeners of remote viewers of ICTV and Government IRCA developed and released 10 iPhone apps and radio at least once Indigenous radio information 11 Android apps for Aboriginal and Torres Strait a month Islander radio stations, as well as IndigiTUBE Radio IRCA Twitter account increased apps for iPhone and Android phones. from 2,354 to 2,966 followers. The first Remote Indigenous Communications in the standard ways of gathering data from very A website was developed for the inDigiMOB project and Media Survey was completed in October remote areas. as well as iOS and Android apps. IRCA Newsletter subscribers 2016. The results show high audience numbers for
increased from 193 to 696. remote Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander radio Lack of comprehensive, detailed remote data The IRCA website is being redeveloped and is and key reasons for community engagement. The to support the on-the-ground knowledge of high currently in a transition phase. It will go live in the results also show the high levels of engagement of local engagement with Aboriginal and Torres The IndigiTUBE Facebook page second half of 2017. remote people with news, government and factual Strait Islander media has been a hindrance at has 4,596 likes and the IndigiTUBE information delivered through remote Aboriginal local, state/territory and national levels for the platform has 1,492 Twitter followers. and Torres Strait Islander radio. further development of policy and expansion of resourcing. A new Facebook page was The survey was designed to gather data on remote established for the inDigiMOB project. audience characteristics of and preferences for: The interviewing was conducted in 11 remote communities spread across the six participating • Listening to remote Aboriginal and Torres Strait Remote Indigenous Media Organisations. 218 IRCA uploaded hundreds of photos from the 18th Islander radio (Remote Indigenous Broadcasting face-to-face interviews were conducted across Remote Indigenous Media Festival, Converge Services (RIBS)) and viewing Aboriginal and the Northern Territory, Torres Strait, Western Australia meda summit and Broadband for the Bush Forum Torres Strait Islander television and South Australia by members of the local to its Flickr site. • Engaging with television, news sources, communities or nearby communities. government information • Using communications and broadcast receiving Further information on the survey and key results technologies. are available at irca.net.au.
Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people living IRCA acknowledges funding support from the in remote communities, especially very remote Community Broadcasting Foundation and the communities, have until now been largely Dept of Prime Minister and Cabinet. IRCA also unrepresented in surveys of radio and television acknowledges the significant in-kind support preferences. The challenges of distance, lack of from participating Remote Indigenous Media access to landline telephones, and the diversity of Organisations and survey partner McNair Ingenuity. languages have created barriers to participation
Reasons for listening Content preferences
Positive Indigenous stories 77% Music 92% Community events 76% Hearing about own community 67% Local news 73% Hearing own language 56% National news 66% Live sports broadcasts 60% Indigenous focus 56% Local interviews 55% Health and government information 53% Feel proud when listening 51% Emergency information 51% Support local employment 51% Other 4%
16 Indigenous Remote Communications Association Annual Report 2016-17 17 Industry Development & Support Industry Development & Support
Representation Developing IRCA has representation on a number of Advisory Funding Opportunities Boards and Committees, including: IRCA regularly shares information about funding opportunities to member organisations via our o Community Broadcasting Sector Roundtable newsletter. We actively seek out new opportunities o AIATSIS Collections Advisory Committee to advance industry strategies and projects. IRCA is o ACMA Consumer Consultative Forum a member of the Strategic Grants Hub and has met o Broadband for the Bush Alliance with several philanthropic organisations to build o ACCAN Indigenous Advisory Group relationships and identify potential industry funding o CBF Nominations Advisory group opportunities. o Mindframe Media Advisory group
o RMIT Cyber-safety research advisory committee. Industry Employment IRCA regularly meets with government and and Training stakeholders to raise the profile and priorities of our IRCA is constantly seeking to develop strategies industry. To promote the sector and raise key issues, to increase Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander IRCA staff deliver conference presentations, radio employment and training opportunities within and TV interviews, and send out press releases. As the industry. This has included holding an industry well as our monthly newsletters and online posts, forum at the 18NRIMF, advocacy to the ABC Board IRCA sends out regular email information to our and NITV, meetings with AFTRS and BIITE to outline PY Media team stakeholders updating on current news, projects training delivery needs for the industry, advocating and opportunities. to DPMC for increased employment funding, and indicate that archiving skills and infrastructure is a Remote Archiving Strategy employing more Aboriginal staff within IRCA to key area for many organisations who are taking The Remote Archiving Strategy continues to facilitate this work. IRCA has received CBF funding up the challenge of preserving irreplaceable tape provide a constructive framework for the archive to develop an industry training and employment based cultural collections. IRCA will be continuing development work of Remote Indigenous Media strategy in 2017/18, as well as a series of industry to seek funding for training and capacity Organisations (RIMOs) and other remote Aboriginal webinars. strengthening to support the industry’s archival and Torres Strait Islander broadcasters. From work. collection significance assessment work through
to engagement with Fellowships, the Strategy
continues to be relevant to preserving unique archives on country. Stereo Radio Channels Upgrade The permanent preservation and access to these Most of the 14 satellite delivered Aboriginal and archives was the focus of Indigenous Remote Torres Strait Islander radio services are currently Communications Association’s Memoranda of low bandwidth (64kbps) mono services, far below Understanding (MOU) with the Australian Institute of industry standard. IRCA has been advocating Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Studies (AIATSIS) for DPMC funding to improve the quality of and in May 2017. The Memoranda of Understanding reliability of these services with increased satellite strengthened the ties of this major national cultural bandwidth to 256kbps, stereo upgrades and high- organisation with the remote media industry, speed business grade data links. With the support helping to maintain archives on country and ensure of the uplink provider Imparja Television, the DPMC proper cultural custodianship of the archives. agreed to fund the increased satellite bandwidth and infrastructure upgrades from mid 2017. The During 2016/2017, National Film and Sound upgrade will occur in late 2017, including the Archive (NFSA) and AIATSIS funded a Fellowship installation of the professional Z/IP One codecs that to support an organisation to build the capacity IRCA previously received CBF funding to purchase of archival staff and plan for the development for the 8 RIMOs to connect to Imparja TV in Alice of the collection. PY Media in the APY Lands was Springs. successful in being awarded the fellowship. Training and development will be undertaken in both IRCA will continue to support our member stations Canberra and at Umuwa in late 2017. to get technology upgrades throughout the radio service supply and transmission chain in order to IRCA’s consultations with Aboriginal and Torres provide reliable, high quality services to Tadam Lockyer and Daniel Featherstone at the CBAA Roundtable March 2017 Strait Islander media organisations across Australia their audiences.
18 Indigenous Remote Communications Association Annual Report 2016-17 19 Sector Engagement / Policy and submission development
Engagement with sector Since 2015, IRCA has participated in the Jawun secondment program through Central Australia’s and key stakeholders host organisation NPY Womens Council, with one IRCA has built good working relationships with secondment in 2016/17. IRCA has also established Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander media a pro bono partnership with Gadens Lawyers in organisations, peak bodies, screen agencies, Melbourne to assist with legal advice for IRCA and broadcasters, and government and funding bodies to assist our membership. to expand our partnerships, impact and knowledge of the industry. IRCA has travelled to Canberra on Sector support advocacy trips in August 2016, and March and April IRCA has provided direct support for remote media 2017. organisations as requested as part of our core
business. This includes providing: IRCA staff have actively consulted with stakeholder organisations throughout 2016/17, including trips • information on funding and income generation to Darwin in July 2016, Perth in September 2016, opportunities Sydney in October and November 2016, Melbourne • templates for policy and procedures, planning, in November 2016, Adelaide and Melbourne in contracts, and other organisational resources February and April 2017, and Perth in June 2017. • assistance with licensing and other regulatory Daniel Featherstone visitng 3KND Kool ‘N’ Deadly We have also met with representatives from requirements most regional and urban radio stations as part • IT and technical advice of the peak body planning, CBAA conference in • Funding expansion • website and social media development and Policy and submission November 2016, and at IRCA’s events. IRCA has • Stereo broadcast provision for remote radio staff training held regular RIMO Managers Meetings to support development • Expanded Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander • HR and recruitment assistance knowledge sharing and to keep abreast of current IRCA engaged in the development of a range of employment • advice to Boards and Managers on industry developments and issues in the remote sector. policies, submissions and responses in 2016/2017. • Positioning of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander directions and strategic planning. Issues statements and submissions to government broadcasters as preferred communications In the broadcasting sphere, IRCA has worked discussion papers and consultations included: channels for reaching Aboriginal and Torres closely with the RIMOs and Aboriginal and Torres Governance AND policy • Response to Community Broadcasting Strait Islander people Strait Islander broadcasters, CBAA, CBF, ICTV, NITV/ development Foundation Draft Funding Guidelines. October • Expansion of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander 2016 radio into areas where there is no current SBS, ABC and the Department of Prime Minister and In 2016/17, the Board had three face to face • Response to ACCC Mobile Roaming Review Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander broadcaster Cabinet. In the telecommunications and digital planning and policy development meetings and (December 2016) and Draft Report. May 2017 and a significant Aboriginal and Torres Strait inclusion space, IRCA has strong partnerships with five additional telephone Board meetings. IRCA • Closure of ABC Short Wave Radio Statement. Islander community Broadband for the Bush Alliance partners, ACCAN, arranged governance training for the IRCA Board February 2017 • Funding for maintenance of remote self-help ACMA, NT Library, Desert knowledge Australia, RMIT, with ORIC in March 2017. In 2016/17, IRCA updated • The Future of Public Interest Journalism. broadcasting facilities CAYLUS, Batchelor Institute, Tangentyere Council our Board and membership policies. These are now Discussion Paper of the Senate Select • Rectifying the failure of DTH digital TV services in and numerous other community organisations. available as templates for member organisations. Committee. June 2017 remote communities IRCA is regularly called upon to speak on Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communications access * Productivity Commission Universal Service • Roll out of effective and affordable broadband and digital inclusion needs, especially in remote Obligation (USO) Review to remote communities. Australia. • Department of Communications ACCAN Review. With the transition to national peak body, a series In the training sphere, IRCA works with AFTRS, of membership policies were approved by the Batchelor Institute, CDU, CMTO and other RTOs. During June 2017, IRCA commenced development Board of Directors in late 2016, covering areas IRCA has built strong partnerships through its of industry responses to the Department of such as Code of Conduct, ICIP, Privacy, Copyright, Archiving working group with NFSA, AIATSIS, NT Communications and the Arts reviews of New Complaints and Health and Safety (available at Library, NSLA, Ara Irititja Archival Project, Mulka Spectrum Legislation and Spectrum Pricing, as well irca.net.au). Media, Strehlow Resource Centre, and University of as the Treasury’s discussion paper on Tax Reform Melbourne. IRCA has also established a relationship of Deductible Gift Recipient Arrangements, with In addition, Board policies relevant to our with First Languages Australia and Aboriginal submissions due in late July and early August expanded role were developed including Interpreter Service as peak language groups. IRCA respectively. Board Portfolios, Communications, Complaints, also works with McNair Ingenuity on audience Grievances, and Sponsorship. The policies will form research and a number of tertiary institutions on IRCA continued to engage with government and a base for the development of a governance and research – RMIT, ANU, CDU/ Northern Institute. ORIC governance training March 2017 key stakeholders on the industry policy statements operational template ‘warehouse’ in 2017/2018 issued in May 2016 on: for members to download and customise for organisational use.
20 Indigenous Remote Communications Association Annual Report 2016-17 21 FINANCIALS IRCA Board 2016 / 2017
Income $ 1,709,457.13 Expenditure $ 1,649,543.45
IRCA Board
DPMC Funding Other Government Staff & Contractors Admin & Operational IRCA has a dedicated Board guiding o ur activities IRCA held our first General Meeting and Board Grants Non-government and the peak body transition. Up to the May 2017 elections under the new Constitution and Event Sponsorship & Festivals & Events Rent & Building Funding Income Elections, the board consisted of: membership model at Converge media summit Travel & Disbursements Training & Other Services Service Income Other Revenue on 24 May 2017. The Constitution allows for up IT Equipment & Services Promotion & Marketing Chair to 9 Board members (plus up to three Board John ‘Tadam’ Lockyer appointed positions), including a male and female Secretary chairperson, with at least 50% from the remote Income Summary Amount $ % Expenditure Summary Amount $ % Sylvia Tabua sector. Directors are also selected according to DPMC Funding $ 656,634.00 38.4% Staff & Contractor Expenses $ 769,094.93 46.6% Treasurer IRCA’s Diversity policy and Skills and Experience Karl Hampton matrix. The new IRCA Board consists of: Other Government Grants $ 224,003.37 13.1% Admin & Operational $ 140,574.15 8.5% Director Non-government Funding $ 675,687.70 39.6% Festivals & Event Costs $ 145,995.44 8.9% Daisy O’Byrne Chair Event Sponsorship & Income $ 90,793.90 5.3% Rent/Building Expenses $ 49,418.06 3.0% Director Dot West Simon Fisher Secretary Travel Costs & Disbursements $ 239,701.49 14.5% Service Income $ 42,659.36 2.5% Director Sylvia Tabua Other Revenue $ 13,378.80 0.8% Training & Other Services $ 206,530.83 12.4% Gilmore Johnston Treasurer Daisy O’Byrne Donations $6.300.00 0.4% IT Equipment & Services $ 81,616.70 4.9% Director Dot West (from August 2016) Director TOTAL $ 1,709,457.13 100% Promotion and Marketing $16,611,85 1.0% Director Elizabeth Katakarinja TOTAL $ 1,649,543.45 100% Kirstie Parker (from August 2016) Director Ralph Saunders The total profit for 2016-2017 was $59,913.68. Of this, $10,775.66 is reserved for use on the 2017 Remote Indigenous Media Festival. IRCA’s full financial report can be downloaded from the website irca.net.au. IRCA Staff 2016 / 2017 Auditor’s Opinion In my opinion, the financial statements of Indigenous Remote Communications Assoc Aboriginal General Manager Corporation is in accordance with: Daniel Featherstone (a) the Corporations (Aboriginal & Torres Strait Islander) Act 2006, including: Assistant Manager Jennifer Nixon (i) giving a true and fair view of the company’s financial position at the year ended 30 Digital Projects Coordinator June 2017 and of their performance for the year ended on that date; and Liam Campbell (ii) complying with Australian Accounting Standards in Australia; and Projects & Research Officer Susan Locke (b) other mandatory professional reporting requirements Communications Officer Jalyay Jaja Thompson inDigiMOB Training Coordinator Name of firm: Brian Tucker Accounting Events & Fundraising Coordinator Alex Burgess Maor Bar-Ziv inDigiMOB Technical Coordinator Administration Officer/s Ben Pridmore (from February 2017) Iona Matthews inDigiMOB Project Manager Stephanie Stone (from March 2017) Metta Young (from April 2017) Name of Principal: Brian Tucker CPA Address: 1/991 Stanley Street, East Brisbane, 4169 Dated this 4th day of September 2017
22 Indigenous Remote Communications Association Indigenous Remote Communications Association Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders Corporation
ABN 734 135 503 24
2/70 Elder Street PO Box 2731 Alice Springs NT 0871
P 08 8952 6465 F 08 8992 9669 M 0437 798 076
E [email protected] www.irca.net.au www.indigitube.com.au
IRCAaustralia
@IRCAaustralia
IRCA acknowledges the traditional custodians of the lands on which we work. We pay respect to Elders past, present and future.
IRCA acknowledges the support of the Department of Prime Minister and Cabinet and the Community Broadcasting Foundation.