AUSTRALIA BANS AI-GENERATED MUSIC FROM OFFICIAL CHARTS

Australia's official music charts have banned tracks created wholly by artificial intelligence, effective Friday, the Australian Recording Industry Association announced on Tuesday. The decision follows public backlash over an AI-generated cover of Madonna's "Like a Prayer". Under the new rules, music must be "substantially human made" to be eligible for the ARIA Charts, though recordings that use AI in a supporting role remain permitted. AI-generated music will also be ineligible for recognition at the annual ARIA Music Awards.

ARIA will distinguish between AI-generated and AI-assisted tracks using a labelling system introduced last month by a coalition of music industry organisations including the Recording Industry Association of America. Tracks are classified as "AI-Generated" if artificial intelligence created the entirety or primary portion of creative elements, and "AI-Assisted" if the technology was used only for some expressive elements. ARIA CEO Annabelle Herd stated that while the charts should evolve to reflect legitimate AI use, they should not recognise music generated "wholesale" by technology relying on other artists' work.

The ban reflects broader industry concern over the surge in AI-generated music entering commercial distribution. ARIA said the changes demonstrate its intent to remain dynamic whilst promoting what it characterises as the human nature of artistry during a rapidly developing period for the technology. The rules take effect on Friday.