Western Australia's peak music industry group, which helps develop the careers of young musicians, has announced significant job cuts that include all its regional staff.
Four West Australian Music (WAM) staff members — almost 50 per cent of the core team — have been made redundant.
Two of them were solely responsible for regional WA music, including Nigel Bird, who was the organisation's regional director.
WAM said the uncertain environment created by the pandemic had led to the loss of crucial funding.
"With a necessary period of change at hand, WAM is reluctantly winding up a series of roles within the organisation."
The McGowan government had provided WAM with a one-off $350,000 grant to help the industry through the pandemic.
That funding is not set to continue.
Various COVID support payments equalled more than a quarter of WAM's income in the past financial year.
WAM's 2020-21 annual report stated that most of its funding came from the state government and "self-generated" sources.
'Big absence'
Regional WA musician Alexia Parenzee says WAM was crucial in kickstarting her career.
"It makes me feel unnerved," she said.
"What is the future of WA music if our peak industry body isn't supported?
"Amazing opportunities that have come my way I think have been orchestrated by WAM.
"It's been so, so valuable."
Nannup Music Festival organiser Phaedra Watts says the news comes as a huge blow.
"They're a massive part of what happens regionally," she said.
"It's going to be a big absence, and then I am unsure what WAM will be standing for or delivering us in the industry."
WA Minister for Culture David Templeman has been contacted for comment.
