Program Snapshot

Delivery year: 2025
Schools: 5
Students engaged in workshops: 72
Total students supported (incl. mentoring): 91
Workshop format: Weekly sessions over 8 weeks
Status: Fully delivered and acquitted

Music for Change was delivered in school settings and supported early intervention, school attendance, literacy development, cultural identity, and student wellbeing. All participation and retention targets were met or exceeded.

What We Delivered

Music for Change combines:

• Music creation and songwriting

• Storytelling and cultural learning

• Multimedia and music video production

• Mentoring support for higher-needs students

• Leadership from Elders and Aboriginal Education Officers

Students worked collaboratively to create original songs and music videos that celebrate culture, language, Country, and identity, while building confidence, communication skills, and pride in who they are.

Impact at a Glance

Across all schools, the program demonstrated strong and consistent outcomes:

• Increased cultural connection and pride

• Improved confidence and self-worth

• Higher levels of school engagement

• Greater optimism about the future

• Improved literacy and communication confidence

Several schools recorded 100% positive student reflection in key outcome areas including self-worth, cultural connection, and engagement in learning.

Student Voice & Wellbeing

Impact was measured through:

• Pre- and post-program student surveys

• Weekly wellbeing check-ins

• Feedback from teachers, Aboriginal Education Officers, Elders, and families

Teachers consistently reported that for many students, this was the first time they had seen them fully engaged, confident, and willing to be visible in a learning environment.

Community & Cultural Connection

Music for Change was delivered in close partnership with schools, families, and community leaders. Parents and carers reported 100% satisfaction, noting positive changes in confidence, cultural awareness, and enthusiasm for school.

Indigenous employment was a core part of delivery, with Indigenous staff contributing nearly half of all program delivery hours.

Watch the Music for Change 2025 Videos

Each school produced an original music video as part of the program. These works stand as powerful expressions of student voice, culture, and growth.

🎬 Completed Videos

Ballina Public School – Ngalingaa Gala Jagun
https://vimeo.com/1145549687/6b77b0f739

Centaur Public School – The Next Generation
https://vimeo.com/1137383437

Nimbin Central School – Nimbunj the Wiiaan
https://vimeo.com/1130797670

Lismore South Public School – Bulaan gii Janbala Jugandaa (Walking Together on Country)
https://vimeo.com/1107995436

Goonellabah Public School – Janbaleh Jagunnaa Ngalinaa (Walking on Our Country)
https://vimeo.com/1093332278/4099394cad