Fully AI-generated music will be banned from Australia’s official music charts starting this week the Australian Recording Industry Association (ARIA) announced on Tuesday.
The policy shift follows industry backlash over an undisclosed AI-assisted cover of Madonna’s 1989 hit "Like a Prayer" by Queensland-based DJ Josh Fawaz. The track became the most-played song on Australian radio in July and peaked at No. 4 on the ARIA charts.
Under the new rules wholly AI-generated tracks are ineligible for chart placement. However, songs using generative AI in a supporting role will remain permitted also provided they are "substantially human-made" and free from streaming manipulation.
ARIA CEO Annabelle Herd emphasized that while the charts must transparently reflect what Australians listen to rewarding unlicensed AI output would undermine the core of the recording industry.
The decision highlights growing global anxiety among record labels and artists who struggle to protect their intellectual property as AI-generated music becomes harder to distinguish from human compositions. Local musicians have heavily criticized the use of AI tools that sample creative works without permission, payment or proper credit.
Fellow producer Mitch Thomas recently labeled Fawaz "the biggest issue in music right now." Defending his process on Instagram, Fawaz argued that he merely uses AI as a supportive tool to create "good music" for his listeners.
Addressing these escalating concerns, Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese pledged last month that his government will introduce measures to ensure artists retain ownership and control over their creative works.
