On the 28th of August 2024, the Multicultural Media Open Day 2.0 took place, building on the success of its predecessor in June. The event, held at OMD – The Platform, South Eveleigh, brought together various NSW government agencies and media outlets in an engaging and interactive format. This unique gathering provided a platform for open dialogue, fostering deeper connections between government bodies and multicultural media outlets, highlighting their pivotal role in reaching diverse community audiences.
Interactive and Engaging Format
The event kicked off at around 3:30 pm, following a 45-minute setup period during which media partners prepared their dedicated areas. These setups included promotional materials and vertical pull-up banners, showcasing the essence of each media outlet. The format of the day was designed to be dynamic and interactive, with Department campaign managers rotating between stations, allowing each media partner an opportunity to present their platform in a personal and impactful manner.
Campaign managers were divided into groups, spending approximately five minutes at each station. A bell signaled each rotation, ensuring a structured and efficient flow. This format enabled all participants to engage directly with each other, promoting a comprehensive exchange of ideas and information.
Key Participants and Discussions
Among the key participants were representatives from Multicultural NSW, Transport for NSW, NSW National Parks & Wildlife Service, Department of Education, and Cancer Institute NSW. These departments played an active role in the discussions, exploring how they could better collaborate with multicultural media to reach and engage diverse audiences.
Media partners were encouraged to deliver a concise 1–2 minute elevator pitch, providing a summary of their platform, the nature of their content (whether radio, print, or digital), and the demographics of their audience. This was followed by a more in-depth discussion lasting 2-3 minutes, focusing on key topics such as the best methods to reach their community, the unique role their platform plays in their community, and the value that NSW government advertising brings to their audiences.
The discussions also delved into additional services that media outlets could offer, such as editorial and creative support, and how they measure audience engagement, often supported by interesting statistics. These conversations not only helped government representatives understand the media landscape better but also provided media outlets with insights into government priorities and how best to align with them.
Networking and Collaboration
The event concluded with a networking session, where participants could continue discussions in a more informal setting. Light refreshments were provided, creating a relaxed atmosphere conducive to building relationships and exploring potential collaborations. This networking opportunity was invaluable for both media partners and government representatives, offering a chance to deepen their understanding and forge lasting partnerships.
Conclusion
The Multicultural Media Open Day 2.0 successfully facilitated a meaningful exchange between NSW government agencies and multicultural media outlets. By providing a structured yet flexible format for interaction, the event underscored the importance of media diversity in reaching and engaging with all segments of the community. It also reinforced the critical role that multicultural media plays in bridging the gap between government initiatives and diverse audiences. The Open Day was a testament to the power of collaboration in enhancing community engagement and ensuring that all voices are heard and represented in public discourse.
