Commercial radio stations hit with pay per-stream or percentage of revenue for music use in simulcasts

The Phonographic Performance Company of Australia (PPCA) and Commercial Radio Australia have reached a new agreement in regards to licensing royalties for audio content streamed online. In addition to existing broadcast licensing fees, commercial stations simulcasting will choose whether to pay a per-stream fee or a percentage of their revenue based on their music use.

This comes following the agreement that the CBAA reached with PPCA with regards to the community radio sector in 2015. Under that agreement, community broadcasters simulcasting pay an annual, affordable flat fee, with no per-song rate or revenue percentage applicable. CBAA member stations receive a further 50% discount.

Working alongside regulatory groups like PPCA is a vital priority for us at the CBAA. By forging strong relationships, we are able to best represent the interests of stations and nurture an operating environment in which the sector can thrive. 

PPCA, along with songwriter copyright agency APRA AMCOS, are strong supporters of the CBAA and community radio. Both organisations will be part of a new program feature at this year’s CBAA Conference, offering delegates the chance to meet one-on-one and get tailored advice about their station’s music licensing. Representatives from each copyright agency will be on hand to  clarify licensing requirements, better understand how copyright fees are distributed and discuss any copyright issues relevant to their station. These sessions require pre-registration – get in now to secure your spot.

You can find out more about music licensing fees by watching our webinar with PPCA, APRA AMCOS and the Australian Copyright Council.