Crisis In Australian Music: Advocacy Body Targets Key Electorates

Kenji Nakamura

5 min read

Post on May 29, 2025

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The Severity of the Crisis Facing Australian Musicians

Australian musicians are battling unprecedented challenges. The COVID-19 pandemic decimated live performance opportunities, a crucial revenue stream for many artists. Even before the pandemic, the rise of streaming platforms led to drastically reduced artist royalties, making it increasingly difficult to make a living from music. This is compounded by rising costs of production, touring, and marketing, leaving many struggling to stay afloat. The Australian music industry, once a vibrant and thriving sector, is facing a serious threat to its very existence.

The depth of the problem is evident in the statistics. Reports show a significant decline in live music venue closures across the country, impacting countless musicians and support staff. Many artists are forced to take on secondary jobs, hindering their creative output and career progression. The lack of adequate government funding and support specifically designed for musician support further exacerbates the situation.

• Decreased live performance opportunities: Lockdowns and venue closures drastically reduced income streams for musicians.
• Inadequate streaming revenue: The current royalty system leaves many artists earning minimal income from their music on major streaming platforms.
• Rising costs of production and touring: Inflation and increased travel costs are making it increasingly expensive for artists to create and promote their music.
• Limited access to mental health resources: The pressures of the industry often lead to mental health challenges, with limited access to appropriate support for many artists.

The Advocacy Body's Targeted Approach

APRA AMCOS's strategy focuses on directly engaging with key electorates across Australia. This targeted approach recognizes that political action is crucial to achieving lasting change. By focusing resources on specific areas, APRA AMCOS can maximize its impact and increase the likelihood of influencing policy decisions. The key electorates targeted include marginal seats and areas with a significant and passionate local music scene, offering the best chance to generate momentum and influence decision-makers.

• Direct lobbying of MPs in target electorates: APRA AMCOS representatives are actively engaging with Members of Parliament in target electorates, presenting the issues facing musicians and advocating for policy change.
• Community engagement events in target areas: APRA AMCOS is organizing events and workshops in target electorates to connect with local musicians and communities, fostering support for the campaign.
• Targeted media campaigns focusing on the needs of local musicians: APRA AMCOS is using media to highlight the challenges faced by musicians in the target electorates, building public awareness and pressure on politicians.
• Collaboration with local businesses and community organizations: APRA AMCOS is building alliances with local businesses and community groups to amplify their message and build broader support for their campaign.

Specific Policy Demands

APRA AMCOS is advocating for several key policy changes to address the crisis in Australian music. These demands are aimed at creating a more sustainable and equitable environment for musicians, enabling them to thrive creatively and financially. These policy changes are crucial to fostering a healthier and more vibrant Australian music industry.

• Increased funding for music education programs: Investing in music education is vital for nurturing future generations of musicians.
• Tax incentives for music production and touring: Reducing the tax burden on artists will make it easier for them to create and promote their music.
• Reform of copyright laws to better protect artists' rights: Strengthening copyright protection will ensure artists receive fair compensation for their work.
• Establishment of a national live music fund: This dedicated fund would provide crucial support to struggling live music venues and artists.

Potential Impact and Long-Term Goals

APRA AMCOS's targeted advocacy has the potential to significantly improve the lives of Australian musicians and revitalize the Australian music industry. The long-term vision is to create a sustainable music industry where artists can earn a fair wage, access resources and support, and contribute to a vibrant and diverse cultural landscape.

• Increased employment opportunities in the music sector: A healthier music industry will create more jobs for musicians and support staff.
• Improved artist livelihoods and working conditions: Fairer royalties and better support structures will improve the lives of Australian artists.
• Greater cultural vibrancy and diversity in Australian music: A flourishing music scene will lead to greater cultural expression and creativity.
• Stronger national identity built around Australian music: Supporting Australian music is supporting our national identity and cultural heritage.

Conclusion: Supporting the Future of Australian Music

The crisis in Australian music is severe, demanding immediate and decisive action. APRA AMCOS's targeted approach, focusing on key electorates and advocating for crucial policy changes, offers a vital path towards a healthier and more sustainable future for Australian musicians. Increased government funding, fairer streaming royalties, and strengthened copyright laws are not merely desirable – they are essential for the survival of this vital sector of our national life. We need to act now to save live music and invest in Australian music.

We urge you to contact your local MPs, express your support for APRA AMCOS's campaign, and advocate for these critical changes. Support Australian musicians, support live music, and invest in the future of Australian music. The vibrant and unique voice of Australian music deserves to be heard and celebrated for generations to come. Let’s ensure that this happens. The future of Australian music depends on it.