Australia’s commercial radio sector is facing renewed pressure to strengthen its support for homegrown music after the registration of the Commercial Radio Code of Practice 2026. While the updated code has been formally adopted by the Australian Communications and Media Authority (ACMA), music rights body APRA AMCOS says the changes fall short of what the industry needs at a time of unprecedented global success for Australian songwriters.
A Code That “Doesn’t Reflect the Opportunity”
Dean Ormston, CEO of APRA AMCOS, did not mince words. “This code is like Jurassic Park and doesn’t reflect the opportunity that’s right in front of commercial radio right now,” he said. Despite a comprehensive review process, local music provisions remain largely unchanged, including the 6am to midnight reporting window that allows stations to schedule Australian content outside peak listening hours.
APRA AMCOS also expressed disappointment that digital radio services were not properly brought into the quota framework — nearly 15 years after the Convergence Review recommended that content obligations apply across both analog and digital platforms. For the organization, the failure to modernize reflects a missed opportunity to align regulation with how audiences actually listen today.
Record Global Growth for Australian Songwriters
The criticism comes at a moment of extraordinary international momentum. Last financial year, international revenue for Australian songwriters reached $98.8 million — up nearly 15% — and foreign revenue exports have more than doubled since 2019.
“The talent is undeniable,” Ormston said. “Our songwriters and composers are making their mark on the world stage like never before.” Research from Music Australia’s Listening In series reinforces this point: 71% of music-engaged Australians feel a sense of pride when they hear Australian music, and two in three want to hear more.
Leading by Example — and a Call to Act
Some broadcasters are already demonstrating what’s possible. Triple M, awarded Licensee of the Year at the 2023 APRA Music Awards, regularly exceeds 30% local content across its 49 stations. “Triple M always go above and beyond and their audiences love them for it,” Ormston noted.
Now, APRA AMCOS is calling on stations nationwide, from Bega to Broome and beyond, to voluntarily increase Australian music airplay, particularly during peak hours. “Now’s the time to rediscover that great Australian soundtrack… The opportunity has never been clearer.”
With Australian music thriving globally and audiences eager for more local voices, the message is clear: commercial radio has a chance to play a defining role in a new Australian music renaissance — if it chooses to seize it.
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