Australia Bans Wholly AI-Generated Tracks from Official Music Charts

Australia's official music charts will no longer allow wholly AI-generated tracks to qualify, under new rules announced by the Australian Recording Industry Association (ARIA). The changes take effect with the ARIA chart dated August 31 and distinguish between music generated primarily by artificial intelligence and recordings where AI is used only as a supporting creative tool.

What AI music will still be allowed in Australia's charts? Recordings made with generative AI can remain eligible if they are substantially human-made and do not raise concerns about manipulation of streams or chart positions. ARIA will use an industry-wide distinction announced in July between: AI-generated music, where AI creates all or the main creative elements of a recording AI-assisted music, which remains substantially human-created but uses generative AI for some elements

ARIA chief executive Annabelle Herd said artists were already using AI creatively and the charts should allow room for that. "This gives everyone who releases music in Australia a clear rule to work to. We call on all parties who have a role in deciding the music played and promoted to Australian audiences, particularly radio, to support human artistry and implement similar changes across their own codes," said Herd.

What happens if an AI track enters the charts? ARIA can refuse to accept an ineligible recording, remove it from the charts either retrospectively or in advance, change chart positions and withdraw accreditations. It can also revoke an ARIA No. 1 Award, while an ineligible track will not qualify for an ARIA Award. Artists and their representatives will be able to challenge exclusions and provide evidence that a recording meets the rules.

The move is part of a broader initiative led by the International Federation of the Phonographic Industry (IFPI), which represents the recording industry globally. IFPI announced principles in July intended for use across official charts internationally. They require eligible AI-assisted recordings to remain substantially human-made, use lawful and authorized AI services and avoid artificial manipulation of streams.

Edited by: Rob Turner