JB

John Bailey

Available to hire

I am a Melbourne-based writer and journalist with more than 20 years' experience in the Australian arts industry, specializing in translating arts world research into accessible stories for a broad audience.

About

I am a Melbourne-based writer and journalist with more than 20 years’ experience in the Australian arts industry, specializing in translating arts world research into accessible stories for a broad audience.

I work with major cultural institutions and independent companies to produce long-form journalism, program notes, copywriting, and archival publications that translate artistic intention into audience engagement.

  • 25 years' experience
  • Joined March 2026

Industry experience

  • Media & Entertainment
  • Non-Profit Organization
  • Education
  • Professional Services

Work experience· 8 roles

Archivist/Writer · Chunky MoveJan 2020 – Present · 6 yrs 11 mos

25 in 2020 archive project celebrating the company’s first 25 years; research and writing integrated into the company website to provide historical context for works and practices.

Freelance Arts Copywriter · Various arts organisationsJan 2014 – Present · 12 yrs 11 mos

Provided extended contracts for publicity copy, festival and season programs (e.g., Melbourne International Arts Festival 2016–2019) and a range of copywriting tasks including business cases, speech-writing and philanthropic communications. Worked with organisations such as Melbourne Symphony Orchestra, Ilbijerri Theatre, Chunky Move, Back to Back Theatre, Lucy Guerin Inc, and many others, tailoring language to diverse audiences and formats.

Writer · Polyglot TheatreJan 2013 – Present · 13 yrs 11 mos

In the Wake of the Wave project: accompanied the company to Minamisanriku, documenting community response; resulted in a graphic novel funded by Creative Victoria and Creative Australia.

Sidney Myer Creative Fellows (Author) · Sidney Myer Creative FellowsJan 2011 – Jan 2022 · 11 yrs 1 mo
Project Manager · The Signal ExpressJan 2010 – Present · 16 yrs 11 mos
Lecturer and Course Convenor · University of MelbourneJan 2005 – Jan 2007 · 2 yrs 1 mo
Arts Journalist · The Age (and other outlets)Jan 2005 – Present · 21 yrs 11 mos
Sessional Tutor · University of MelbourneJan 2001 – Jan 2007 · 6 yrs 1 mo

Education

Easy English training · City of Melbourne2021

Certifications and awards· 6

Bachelor of Arts (Hons)1994 – 1999
Master of Arts (Research) English and Cultural Studies2002 – 2006
Sidney Myer Creative Fellows2011 – 2022
Master of Arts (Research) in English and Cultural Studies2002 – 2006

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