A new report predicts a substantial financial impact on New Zealand and Australian musicians, forecasting a staggering NZ$570 million loss over the next few years due to the rise of generative artificial intelligence (AI).
Released by APRA AMCOS and conducted by Berlin-based consultancy Goldmedia, the report draws on insights from a comprehensive survey of over 4,200 APRA AMCOS members across Australasia. The survey included input from industry experts, renowned songwriters, and composers such as Jimmy Barnes, KINGS, Missy Higgins, Chris Chetland, and Tina Arena.
According to the findings, by 2028, 23 percent of music creators’ revenues could be jeopardized by AI, leading to potential losses exceeding half a billion dollars. Despite 38 percent of respondents already integrating AI into their creative processes and 54 percent acknowledging its potential to enhance human creativity, a significant 82 percent expressed concerns over their ability to sustain a livelihood from their work due to AI’s influence.
The impact of AI extends beyond financial concerns. A notable 76 percent of Māori respondents fear that AI could exacerbate issues of cultural appropriation. Dame Hinewehi Mohi, APRA AMCOS’ manakura puoro Māori, highlighted that unregulated AI poses a severe threat to Māori music, emphasizing the risk of cultural misappropriation and the importance of preserving the integrity of Māori musical traditions and taonga puoro.
The survey underscores widespread apprehension about the absence of legislation governing AI in music. An overwhelming 97 percent of respondents believe that AI providers should be required to disclose the use of copyrighted material as training data, and 95 percent advocate for obtaining permission from copyright holders before utilizing their works in AI systems.
APRA AMCOS Chief Executive Dean Ormston acknowledged the innovative potential of AI but stressed the need for regulatory measures to ensure proper credit, consent, and fair compensation for creators. “Without appropriate regulation and licensing, the economic consequences could be devastating. Creators invest their passion and creativity into their work, only to face exploitation by AI platforms,” he warned.
Anthony Healey, APRA AMCOS’ New Zealand head, emphasized that while the music industry has long been digital, it fundamentally remains a “human experience.” He called for recognition and equitable sharing of the benefits of AI with the creators who contribute to its development.
Science, Innovation, and Technology Minister Judith Collins has been approached for comment on the report’s findings.
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