APRA AMCOS, a significant player in the music industry, has expressed its approval of the Albanese Government’s latest Federal Budget. This budget, according to APRA AMCOS, is a crucial step in upholding the ideals set forth in the Revive national cultural policy. The organization has not only welcomed the budget but has also urged all political parties to endorse the next phase, known as the Triple Lock Guarantee, which focuses on supporting local music.
The Federal Budget introduced by the Albanese Government includes a $17 million boost for Creative Australia to further implement the National Cultural Policy, Revive. This allocation also encompasses an expected rise in funding for Music Australia. Moreover, APRA AMCOS has commended the allocation of $8.6 million for the renewal of the Revive Live program, which aims to bolster live music venues, tours, and festivals. Additionally, $11 million has been earmarked to sustain the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Languages Partnership Program.
Dean Ormston, the CEO of APRA AMCOS, emphasized the government’s forward-thinking approach towards the Australian music industry. He highlighted the budget’s recognition of music’s increasing significance in shaping the nation’s identity, boosting the economy, and expanding its global influence. Ormston lauded the impact Music Australia has had in supporting both emerging and established artists, reinforcing the national music industry infrastructure, and facilitating international opportunities for Australian music.
Ormston underscored the current unique opportunity Australia has to solidify the music industry’s future. He advocated for a Triple Lock Guarantee, consisting of increased investment in Music Australia, the implementation of an Australian music quota across digital platforms, and the introduction of a live music tax rebate. Ormston stressed the importance of updating local content rules for streaming services to prevent Australian music from being overshadowed by global content.
Furthermore, APRA AMCOS has urged the government to swiftly implement transparency regulations for AI platforms utilizing creative works to train generative models. Ormston emphasized the necessity of clear guidelines to protect Australian creators from potential exploitation and ensure transparency in the use of their content by AI systems.
In conclusion, APRA AMCOS praised the collaboration between the government and the music industry evident in the Federal Budget. The organization called for continued efforts in securing the future of Australian music and emphasized the need for the upcoming Parliament to finalize the initiatives outlined in the budget to ensure a lasting impact on the music industry. The Revive national cultural policy, initiated by Prime Minister Anthony Albanese in 2023, aims to reposition the arts as a central component of national life, focusing on pillars such as First Nations First, A Place For Every Story, Centrality of the Artist, Strong Institutions, and Reaching the Audience.