For young women trying to make it in the music business, the problem of industry sexism persists. Think of it as "the girlfriend" problem.

As Chloe Turner, co-founder of feminist music label LISTEN Records, describes it: "A lot of women say they're sick of being referred to as 'the girlfriend' when they actually play in the band. People assume women aren't actually doing things, that they're just along for the ride."

Chloe Turner, Grace Kindellan, Tali Hardiang-Hone and Jelena Goluza will take part in a three-day camp to support young female performers. Credit:Eddie Jim

Such attitudes are among the motivations for Squad Camp, an all-women event being held on the Mornington Peninsula this weekend that brings together industry professionals and women aged 18-25 for three days of mentoring, advice and inspiration.

While Australian women such as Sia and Iggy Azalea are the toast of the music industry internationally, at the other end of the business – where musicians like Melbourne singer-guitarist Grace Kindellan are just starting out – it's a different story.