BARKAA, Jaguar Jonze, moderated by Narelda Jacobs

The music industry is still reeling in the wake of #MeToo, and artists are being left to pick up the pieces. Sharing their stories of racism, sexism and survival, these whistleblowers are standing up for those who can’t.

Despite decades of legislative reform and workplace protections in other industries, there is a persistent shadowy underbelly in Australian music. Misogyny continues to run rampant and blatant racism remains pervasive, with female artists facing bullying, harassment, abuse and assault in their places of work, environments that are often made more dangerous by alcohol and drugs.

And for those who do speak out about their shocking experience, the cost on their professional and personal lives is high. Often that price is too high to pay, with many women feeling forced into silence.

Speaking from lived experience, our panellists reflect on how the industry enables toxic behaviour and challenge the lack of accountability from those at the top.