APRA AMCOS

APRA AMCOS is Australia’s leading music rights management organisation, representing songwriters, composers, lyricists and music publishers. Operating across Australia and New Zealand, they exist to ensure music creators are fairly recognised and paid when their music is used.

Formed through the alliance of APRA (Australasian Performing Right Association) and AMCOS (Australasian Mechanical Copyright Owners Society), the organisation licenses music use, collects royalties, and distributes income back to its members. APRA AMCOS plays a vital role in sustaining the creative economy and protecting the rights of music creators at every stage of their careers.

What APRA AMCOS Does

APRA AMCOS supports the music industry through a combination of rights management, advocacy, and reinvestment in creative communities. Its core areas of work include:

• Music licensing for businesses, broadcasters, digital platforms and live venues
• Royalty collection and distribution for songwriters, composers and publishers
• Rights protection and copyright advocacy for music creators
• Industry education and resources on music rights and best practice
• Data, reporting and transparency to ensure accurate royalty payments

By managing both performance and mechanical rights, they provide a streamlined system that supports creators while enabling legal music use across the industry.

Supporting the Music Industry

Beyond licensing and royalties, APRA AMCOS actively reinvests in the music community through funding, professional development and advocacy programs. This includes:

• Grants and funding initiatives that support new music, touring and creative development
• Workshops, mentoring and professional programs for emerging and established creators
• Showcase opportunities and international market support
• Policy and advocacy work that protects creators’ rights in a changing digital landscape

They work closely with industry partners, government bodies and cultural organisations to strengthen the long-term sustainability of the music sector.

Why APRA AMCOS Matters

• Represents tens of thousands of songwriters, composers and publishers
• Ensures creators are paid when their music is used
• Supports sustainable creative careers in music
• Advocates for fair copyright and music rights policy
• Reinvestes in the growth and future of the Australian music industry

Connecting with APRA AMCOS

Artists, publishers, businesses and industry professionals can learn more about licensing, membership and industry support via the official APRA AMCOS website.