AI‑Generated Songs Banned From Australian Music Charts
In a decisive move to protect human artistry, the Australian Recording Industry Association (ARIA) has declared that any song largely or wholly created by artificial intelligence will be excluded from its official charts.
The new editing code takes effect immediately, and all releases must be “substantially human made” to qualify. Artists may still use AI as a tool—such as for mastering or auto‑tuning—but the melody, lyrics and primary instrumentation must come from a human creator, and the lead vocal must be performed by a live artist.
The decision followed the viral success of a DJ‑produced cover of Madonna’s Like A Prayer by Australian DJ Josh Fawaz. The track topped the ARIA dance singles chart and reached number two on the overall chart, while amassing more than 48 million Spotify streams. After a backlash, the artist added a generative‑AI credit line and faced criticism for the lack of genuine human input.
ARIA spokesperson and chief executive Annabelle Herd explained that the music market has become “the most crowded ever” and that the organization does not wish to celebrate AI‑generated hits that lack authentic artistry. She added that tracks heavily based on AI-generated content downplay the unique creative process that defines the recorded music industry.
The new guidelines also include provisions for correcting chart positions if a song proves to be largely AI‑generated after publication. Artists that become disqualified can challenge their exclusion and, if a piece topped the charts, may be required to return any number‑one awards received.
This policy aligns with international trends: in June, Sweden banned a fully AI‑created song from its charts, while the IFPI announced upcoming AI guidelines for Latin America, the Middle East, Africa and Southeast Asia. The IFPI directive also seeks to prevent manipulation of streams and charts.
Artists pushing the harmony between AI tools and genuine creativity are voicing support. Australian electronic act Peking Duk released an AI‑assisted version of their 2014 hit “High” on Instagram, captioning it as a method to get airplay. Lead vocalist Adam Hyde warned on Channel Nine’s Today that “AI‑generated music is erasing the human touch from music.”
Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has pledged “the strongest possible protection” for creatives from AI use, promising that writers and musicians can retain control over their work and that they will be compensated should their material be used training AI. The policy reflects the growing debate over how to balance rapid technological advances with respect for artistic labor.
