In 2024 the two major retail employer organisations, National Retail Association and Australian Retail Association, announced a merger. Both organisations currently perform a similar function with a similar purpose to support and represent retailers in Australia, with some differences in their structure, strengths and programs. Continue reading →
The overall change in the Australian music products market in 2024, based on inflation-adjusted import values across all sections, was a decline of 10% compared to 2023.
2023 total market value (Adjusted): $AU500 million (imports) / $AU1.25 billion (retail value)
2024 total market value: $AU450 million (imports) / $AU1.13 billion (retail value)
The New South Wales Minister for the Arts, John Graham, recently addressed the launch of a report revealing new insights into music education in NSW. The report, commissioned and published by the Music Education: Right From The Start initiative and conducted by the Australian Council for Educational Research (ACER), found that teachers clearly and overwhelmingly understand the value of music in schools but the majority are not confident teaching the subject. Continue reading →
As a registered and fully tax deductible charity, operated by Soundhouse Music Alliance, Music for All makes small grants to assist those in disadvantaged circumstances experience the life changing benefits of music making. The Australian Music Association has adopted Music for All as a partner charity and encourages members to support its fundraising work. Continue reading →
The Australian Communications and Media Authority (ACMA) has released a consultation paper proposing a new version of the Radiocommunications (Low Interference Potential Devices) Class Licence (LIPD) to replace the current 2015 instrument. This licence allows certain classes of low-power radiocommunications devices, including wireless microphones and other wireless audio equipment, to operate without an individual licence. The current instrument is due to sunset on 1 October 2025. Continue reading →
The Federal Election is coming up on 3rd May and as usual there are a wide range of campaigns and proposals. The AMA itself has no campaign but is a member of several organisations and groups with specific election proposals for all parties to consider, including small business tax cuts, support for retailers, and of course support for music education. Continue reading →
The Australian Communications and Media Authority (ACMA) is seeking feedback on our preliminary views on spectrum covered by expiring spectrum licences.The spectrum underpins mobile markets and is used for coverage of live news and public transport services.
Australia’s largest music education conference, previously known as Maryborough Music Conference, is moving to Brisbane for the first time and rebranding as Queensland Music Education Conference (QMEC) this year. Presented by the AMEB and proudly supported by the Queensland Department of Education, QMEC is an unparalleled opportunity to connect with fellow music educators, share insights, and explore the latest developments in music education. With a program that features a diverse array of workshops, presentations, and performances by leading professionals and academics in the field, it promises to be an inspiring and enriching experience for all participants. Continue reading →
Music China 2025 to expand products into holistic wellness and music technology
As China’s appetite for musical innovation surges, Music China, Asia’s largest trade event for the musical instruments industry, returns for its exciting 22nd edition. From 22 – 25 October 2025, the fair is set to welcome over 1,850 exhibitors to the Shanghai New International Expo Centre. Across 150,000 sqm, additions to the product portfolio will span music products that embrace holistic wellness and bring users high-quality music experiences. Moreover, a new thematic zone in Hall N3 will unveil cutting-edge innovations in music recording, production, and performance, reflecting the ever-evolving landscape of music technology. Continue reading →