Copyright Legislation Amendment (Fair Pay for Radio Play) Bill 2023

# Copyright Legislation Amendment (Fair Pay for Radio Play) Bill 2023 ## What it does This bill removes a legal exemption that currently allows radio stations to play recorded music without paying performers and record labels. Right now, sections 152(8) to 152(11) of the Copyright Act let radio broadcasters avoid paying performance royalties—this bill deletes those exemptions so radio stations would need to pay up like other music users do. ## Why it matters Musicians, singers, and record companies lose money every time their music gets radio airplay without compensation. Fixing this could mean more income flowing to the artists and creators whose work generates audiences for radio stations—though it'll also increase costs for broadcasters. ## Key details - **What changes**: Removes the specific legal carve-out that exempts radio from paying for recorded music performance rights (subsections 152(8)–152(11)) - **When it starts**: The day after Parliament gives it Royal Assent (final approval) - **Who's affected**: Radio stations, musicians, singers, record labels, and music rights organisations