The Albanese government's 2025-26 federal budget has dropped a cool $22 million boost for Creative Australia, with music a major winner.
APRA AMCOS has applauded the move while challenging all political parties to commit to a Triple Lock Guarantee for local music ahead of the upcoming election.
The budget includes vital cash injections to keep Australia’s music scene pumping, with $8.6 million for the Revive Live program supporting venues, tours and festivals, plus $11 million continuing the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Languages Partnership Program.
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APRA AMCOS Chief Executive Dean Ormston reckons this budget recognises music’s growing importance to our national identity.
“This is a welcome and timely Budget that recognises the growing role music plays in our national identity, economy and global reach,” Dean Ormston said.
“Music Australia has already made a powerful impact in its first two years by supporting emerging and established artists, strengthening our national industry infrastructure, and building new international pathways for Australian music.
“The increased investment in the Budget means Music Australia can move into its next phase with confidence, and so can our creators and industry.”
While stoked with the budget, Ormston is pushing hard for long-term reforms post-election, calling for all parties to back APRA AMCOS’s proposed Triple Lock Guarantee.
“Australia now has a once in a generation opportunity to finish the job,” he said. “We need a Triple Lock Guarantee to secure the future of Australian music. This begins with all parties committing to it as part of their election platforms.”
The Triple Lock consists of increased Music Australia funding (already delivered in this budget), Australian music quotas across digital platforms, and a live music tax rebate similar to what the film industry enjoys.
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The streaming focus comes as Ormston warns Aussie artists risk being “drowned out by global algorithms” on platforms that have become our primary music discovery channels.
“A live music tax rebate would be a game-changer,” said Dean Ormston.
“Just like film and television, our live sector deserves structural support that reflects its cultural and economic impact. It’s about keeping venues open, tours on the road, and jobs in the industry.”
APRA AMCOS is also pushing for urgent AI regulation to protect creators from having their work exploited without consent or compensation.
“AI is already reshaping the way music is created, consumed and monetised, often without the consent or knowledge of the people who make it,” Dean Ormston said.
“We need clear, enforceable rules around the training of AI models, including transparency about what content is being used. Without this, Australian creators risk being exploited, their works devalued and their voices erased.”
The Triple Lock Guarantee builds on recommendations from the recent Parliamentary Inquiry into Australian Live Music, which highlighted the need for long-term investment and support.
“This budget shows what’s possible when government works in partnership with industry,” he said. “Now we need the next Parliament to finish the job – and lock in the future of great Australian music for good.”
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