Leadership Labs are free, one-day, in-person events designed to supports artist and arts workers to tackle the complex, systemic challenges across the arts and culture sector.

A cross between a workshop and a conference, the Leadership Labs help you better understand the system you’re working in, connect with peers in generative ways, and identify small but powerful actions you can test to create change.

At the Lab you’ll engage with inspiring perspectives from featured speakers, take part in practical breakout sessions, and leave with ideas you can apply in your context, organisation or community. You don’t need to be in a formal leadership role to attend – all you need is an interest in working collaboratively on shared challenges.

Each Lab is co-created with local curators to celebrate and platform sector-led leadership activity.

What to expect:

• A keynote presentation and a choice of breakout sessions from local and interstate presenters
• Topics including systems thinking, cultivating networks, adaptive leadership and social innovation
• Interactive activities that value your perspectives and strengths
• Facilitated conversations that prioritise diverse voices
• Delicious morning tea and lunch

What you’ll take away:

• Fresh perspectives on the system you’re part of
• New and nourished relationships across your local arts and culture community
• Practical ideas for the next steps you can take
• A resource pack to share with your community, collective or team

These events are part of Creative Australia’s Leadership Capability Program.

Independent artist support 

We know that independent artists can experience barriers to attending leadership development events. If you are an independent artist, you can apply for a bursary of $500 to support you to attend the Leadership Lab. There are 10 bursaries available to apply for when you register for the event. We will allocate bursaries on a random basis.

Accessibility 

This event will have a range of access supports available including:

• Quiet room
• Visual story (guide to access features of the venue and event)
• Adjustable lighting
• Air conditioning

If you have other access needs such as captions, notetaking or Auslan interpreting, please let us know when you register. We work with you to support your access needs.

Financial support for access needs 

If you experience barriers to attending because you identify as a person with disability or who is d/Deaf, we can provide some financial support for access costs you might have so you can attend this event. For example: costs of Uber/taxi to get to the venue, support workers or childcare. You can request this support when you register for the event.

Program overview and presenters