30th July, 2024

The AMA has appeared twice at government inquiries in the past week, and met with important stakeholders on a range of issues.

On 25th July Alex Masso represented the AMA at a hearing for the Inquiry into the challenges and opportunities within the Australian live music industry, conducted by the Standing Committee on Communications and the Arts. 

Alex Masso addressing the Joint Select Committee on Arts and Music Education and Training in New South Wales

That same day, the AMA completed its submission to the Joint Select Committee on Arts and Music Education and Training in New South Wales (read more). Today Alex Massso represented the AMA at a hearing for that committee, on a day that included Alberts, ASME, Music in Me, Sydney Youth Orchestra, Sydney Conservatorium of Music, the NSW Music Teachers’ Association, Association of NSW Regional Conservatoriums, and others.

Jochen Zenthöfer and Alex Masso in Sydney

Meanwhile, Alex met with Jochen Zenthöfer from Save Our Spectrum, one of the leading international advocates for cultural use of radiofrequency spectrum, during his visit to Australia. He is based in Europe and focuses primarily on that region, but performs an essential role similar to NAMM and the League of American Orchestras on CITES issues, keeping up to date with the World Radiocommunications Conference and other international developments and coordinating the industry response. The AMA has mentioned the use of spectrum for wireless audio devices in submissions to government inquiries on the National Cultural Policy and the Challenges and opportunities within the Australian live music industry.

The AMA continues to monitor and respond to issues that affect the industry, there are a number of consultations this year related to skills and training including the Skills Taxonomy and ANZSCO (occupation) codes.

26th July 2024

The Australian Music Association has a strong history of advocating for the importance of music education and participation in music, and increasing access to quality music education for all children. Earlier this year a Joint Select Committee within NSW Parliament was established to investigate Arts and Music Education and Training in NSW.  Continue reading →

15th July 2024

Amber Technology, a leading provider of professional audio solutions, is pleased to announce the appointment of Garrick Simeon as the new general manager of professional products and media systems, effective 1 July, 2024. This strategic appointment comes as a part of the company’s ongoing commitment to excellence and innovation in the industry.
 
Garrick Simeon brings a wealth of experience to his new role at Amber Technology, having previously served with the company from 2000 to 2011 in various capacities, including marketing manager for Avid Australia and general manager of the video and audio post division.  
 
Since 2011, Garrick has served in roles such as managing director at General Dynamics Mediaware, transformation consultant for Synergy Group, federal public sector account director at Amazon Web Services (AWS), and APAC regional sales and partner manager at archTIS Software. His extensive experience in people management, technical expertise, and strategic vision make him well-suited to lead the professional products team into the future.
 
Leon Hart, the outgoing general manager, will be retiring from the business at the end of 2024 after twenty years of dedicated service. Under his leadership, the professional products team has achieved significant milestones and established itself as a leader in the industry.
 
Peter Amos, managing director, Amber Technology, said, “On behalf of the Amber Technology Board, management, and staff we extend our sincere thanks to Leon Hart for his unwavering dedication over the past two decades, and wish him well in his retirement. We are confident that Garrick Simeon’s leadership will continue to drive our professional products division to new heights, and we look forward to the exciting opportunities ahead.”  Continue reading →

6th June 2024

The Fair Work Commission has announced a 3.75% increase to the Minimum Wage and Award Wages. Continue reading →

7th May 2024

The Australian Music Association and Your Leasing Co are announcing a new partnership to support the music products industry. Your Leasing Co specialises in lease negotiations for commercial leases, and works with industry associations to support their members. Members of the AMA now have access to a Free Lease Review, valued at $2500, and a Free Telephone Hotline to provide assistance with tenancy issues. Continue reading →