The Independent Media Agencies of Australia (IMAA) has unveiled its key initiatives for 2024, including new member education and networking events, and plans for an industry-first First Nations immersion trip to the Northern Territory.

The IMAA is set to launch several new events for members this year, including a major event in February (details to be announced soon), and Pitch-CELLA, an in-person event designed to engage future agency talent, to be held later this year.

The IMAA will host a delegation of senior media partners and members to the Northern Territory in May, with planned visits to Uluru and Alice Springs, where the inaugural Black Tank will be held with IMAA charity partner and indigenous social initiative Kings Narrative. The second phase of the IMAA’s Female Leaders of Tomorrow programme will be launched in 2024, along with the release of Digital 101 – the final module in the IMAA Academy learning series.

"2024 is set to be another milestone year for the IMAA. We have a number of new, innovative events planned, designed to engage, excite and inform our members across all levels of experience. I’m particularly excited about our Northern Territory delegation and the rare opportunity to connect with our First Nations people – this trip is sure to be a once-in-a-lifetime experience for all who attend," said Sam Buchanan, CEO of IMAA.

The IMAA will continue its commitment to sustainability with Clean Up Australia actions planned around the nation on March 12, and will further its work around reconciliation with the launch of phase two of its reconciliation action plan. The inaugural IMAA Cup golf event will be held to raise funds for The Harrison Riedel Foundation to combat youth suicide, and its quarterly networking events in all states, regular Insights & Innovation webinar series, along with its Indie Census survey will continue.

"This year, we continue to remain steadfast in our commitment to sustainability and reconciliation, along with offering training and upskilling opportunities across our industry. 2024 is set to be a year of change and evolution, particularly with technology and how our agencies deliver for their clients and partners – I know our education initiatives will become more critical than ever in the months to come," Buchanan added.

"I’m excited for the year ahead – we’re heading into 2024 with a record number of media partners and agency members. It’s a reflection of the IMAA’s ability to deliver for its members, the industry’s future leaders and the wider industry, and the bright future of the indie sector," Buchanan concluded.