The Victorian Government has committed $240,000 in fresh funding for SYN, a youth-run media organisation that has helped launch the careers of Australian broadcasters and entertainers including Hamish and Andy, Tommy Little and Zan Rowe.
The announcement was made by Minister for Youth Luba Grigorovitch, who said the funding would help sustain SYN’s training and development programs for young people interested in broadcasting, production and digital media.
SYN Media, known formally as the Student Youth Network, operates as a youth-led platform providing hands-on experience in radio, podcasting, blogging and video production. The organisation is designed to give young people direct access to industry skills and pathways into media careers.
Last year, SYN supported around 390 participants through media production and leadership programs, produced 1,940 radio programs and delivered more than 700 blogs, vlogs and podcasts. More than 130 volunteers gained practical experience through its operations, while its media learning programs reached over 3,500 primary and secondary school students.
The Victorian Government said it has provided more than $1.2 million in funding to SYN over time, describing the organisation as a long-term partner in youth media development.
Minister Grigorovitch said SYN continues to provide opportunities for young Victorians from diverse backgrounds to develop skills and confidence in media.
“SYN is doing unique and fantastic work, giving young Victorians from every background the skills and confidence to have their say,” she said.
She also pointed to broader political debate around funding commitments, saying alternative budget proposals from the Liberal-One Nation coalition led by Jess Wilson could affect organisations such as SYN.
Station Manager Jane Gazzo said SYN remains focused on building creative and career pathways for young people through practical experience in media production.
“SYN is where young people find their voice and create their future. We empower young people to develop media and storytelling skills, build career pathways and create connected communities,” she said.
She added that the Victorian Government has played an ongoing role in supporting the organisation’s work over more than two decades, helping thousands of young people gain experience and confidence in the sector.
The latest funding will support SYN’s continued operations and training programs across Victoria.
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