Designers fury over unpaid graphic design role

Working for free or for 'exposure' is a sore subject in the design community, but, sadly, one that crops way too often. This morning, designers all over the globe are infuriated by a career listing from the South Australian Health and Medical Research Institute (SAHMRI), which asks for graphic design volunteer

The SAHMRI website describes the role as 'a great opportunity for a Graphic Design student who wishes to  gain some great experience and start an exciting portfolio of their work'. It goes on to include a detailed list of requirements and key attributes the 'lucky' applicant should have.

The volunteer agreement attached to the job listing also clearly states:

"The Volunteer Graphic Designer at SAHMRI is a volunteer position. This means that you perform all duties on a voluntary basis, of your own free will, and you will not receive payment for your work. You are not an employee of SAHMRI and you are not entitled to a salary or any other entitlements associated with employment."  

The post was noticed by designer and CEO of AGDA, Nic Eldridge, who quickly took to Twitter to express his distain...

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...which quickly lead to a number of other creatives voicing similar opinions:

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Eldridge states that he plans to respond to the listing, but, for now, commented that the most important thing is raising awareness for young designers:

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What's your opinion on major organisations targeting students for unpaid design work? Add your comment to our Facebook post.

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Kerrie Hughes
Freelance writer

Kerrie Hughes is a frequent contributor to Creative Bloq, and was once its editor. One of the original CB crew, Kerrie joined the team back in 2013 after moving from her role as staff writer on 3D World. Since then she's written regularly for other creative publications such as ImagineFX, Computer Arts and Digital Camera World. After a stint working for the police, Kerrie is back reviewing creative tech for creative professionals.