Programs and
Professional Development
In 2024, AMaGA Victoria continued to strengthen sector capability through a dynamic and diverse calendar of events. Across the year, we delivered 28 programs and training sessions, comprising 11 online, 16 in-person, and 1 hybrid event. These sessions were thoughtfully curated to support the broad spectrum of experience across the sector, and delivered in a variety of formats, including seminars, tours, workshops, forums, information sessions, and networking events.
In total, 1021 participants engaged with our professional development program. Sessions were tailored to the needs of professional staff and volunteers, with content developed in consultation with our members and sector partners to ensure relevance, accessibility, and impact. Please note that these figures do not include the Victorian Collections workshops or the Accreditation Programs information sessions, which can be viewed in the individual program reports.
AWARDS
The 2024 Victorian Museums and Galleries Awards, co-presented with the Public Galleries Association of Victoria (PGAV), celebrated excellence across the sector with a lively event held at Science Gallery Melbourne, University of Melbourne.
Hosted by Sammy J, the evening offered a night of recognition and connection, honouring the creativity, dedication, and innovation of Victoria’s museums and galleries. A total of 11 winners and 5 highly commended individuals and projects were announced, representing the depth and diversity of work across the state (see Acknowledgements for full list).
The event was generously supported by Archival Survival, Deakin University, and Science Gallery Melbourne — who, in addition to the venue, provided entertainment via the “Disco Heads”, adding a touch of sparkle and humour to the evening.
Image: Attendees at the 2024 Victoria Museums and Galleries Awards with Disco Head. Photo: Sharon Blance.
GLAM-SHOW TOUR
The GLAM-Show Tour is AMaGA Victoria’s travelling program, designed to bring us directly to the sector. This year, the tour took us to eight remarkable sites across Victoria (see map on main page). Each tour offers the opportunity to connect with local museums, galleries, and community collecting organisations; to hear firsthand about regional priorities; and to discuss the challenges and opportunities shaping cultural practice across the state.
SEMINARS & WORKSHOPS
AMaGA Victoria’s annual Seminar Series offers targeted professional development on key sector themes, with topics evolving each year to address emerging priorities. This year’s series focused on Exhibition Development, covering the entire exhibition lifecycle from planning and design to production, marketing, and evaluation. Led by industry experts, the sessions provided practical tools, fresh insights, and case studies to help participants create engaging, audience-driven exhibitions.
We also hosted a Project Management Masterclass in partnership with the Victorian Chamber of Commerce and Industry, offering participants valuable tools and strategies for effective project delivery. Additionally, a Flood Recovery Workshop offered targeted support for cultural institutions, focusing on recovery strategies and best practices for salvaging water-damaged collections.
We also hosted a Project Management Masterclass in partnership with the Victorian Chamber of Commerce and Industry, offering participants valuable tools and strategies for effective project delivery. Additionally, a Flood Recovery Workshop offered targeted support for cultural institutions, focusing on recovery strategies and best practices for salvaging water-damaged collections.
Image: Sharon Vardy providing training on Flood Preparedness for Museums, Royal Exhibition Building. Photo: Maria Pia Dunne.
TOURS
AMaGA Victoria organised a series of insightful tours to Victoria Police Museum, the Melbourne Holocaust Museum, and the Benalla Costume and Kelly Museum. Participants gained valuable insights into the diverse ways these institutions approach storytelling, education, and community connection, further enriching their professional development.
FORUMS
At the AMaGA National Conference in Ballarat (19–22 August), AMaGA Victoria and PGAV curated Victoria in Focus, an opening-day stream celebrating the diversity and innovation of Victoria’s collecting and presenting organisations.
Aligned with the broader theme, Hear Us Now: Turning Conversations into Action, the sessionshowcased local case studies, discussions, and insights, providing a platform for Victorian voices and projects to contribute to national conversations on sustainability, inclusion, and community engagement.
We also hosted the We’re Decolonising — Now What? panel, developed and facilitated by our Project Officer Intern, Kavita Peterson. The event offered some nuance to discussions about ‘decolonising the museum’ through bringing to light some of the less visible barriers facing heritage practitioners of colour in the ‘decolonial turn’. See the Internship Program report for more information.
SPECIAL GENERAL MEETING
The Special General Meeting took place at the RMIT Design Archives in May 2024. This provided members with the chance to gain insights into AMaGA Victoria's ongoing programs and the association's current and future sustainability efforts.
END OF YEAR CELEBRATION
AMaGA Victoria’s End of Year Celebration was held at the stunning Bundoora Homestead Art Centre, offering a perfect setting to reflect on the year’s achievements. Guests enjoyed an evening of networking, festive cheer, and thoughtful conversations in a welcoming, historic venue. It was quite the year to celebrate.
MICHELLE FRACARO
Manager, Programs and Professional Development
