The Australasian Music Publishers’ Association Limited (AMPAL) has submitted a response to the Productivity Commission's interim report on data and digital technology, advocating against a proposed text and data mining (TDM) exception for copyrighted works.
Our Board members have spoken out on the devastating impact this TDM exception would have on Australian music publishers, songwriters and our cultural exports.
From AC/DC and INXS, through to Sia and Tame Impala, Australia’s songwriters and composers are some of our proudest and most powerful cultural exports. Music publishing is the business that supports them.
A blanket TDM exception would weaken that system, deter investment and hand enormous value to companies who give nothing back. It also lacks the nuance, creativity and agility that only an industry-led licensing solution can yield.
Licensing is the proven way forward. It encourages innovation, ensures fairness and keeps Australia in step with international best practice.
We urge the Commission to reject a TDM exception and support a licensing-based approach that works for both the tech and creative sectors.
Read AMPAL submission here.