Australia's Music Charts Set to Exclude AI-Generated Tracks
By Editor • August 25, 2026 • 1 min read
In a significant move to protect artists, Australia’s music industry will prohibit entirely AI-generated songs from its official charts starting next week. This decision comes in response to growing concerns over the impact of generative technologies on musicians' livelihoods.
The controversy was sparked by an AI-generated remix of Madonna's classic "Like a Prayer," which has enjoyed a 16-week run in the Top 20, even reaching No. 2 in May. While tracks featuring human creativity will still be eligible, ARIA has set clear guidelines for inclusion in the charts.
According to ARIA's statement, eligible songs must have been written by humans and feature live performances of the lead vocals and primary instruments. Additionally, AI-generated tracks will not qualify for the prestigious ARIA awards. Chief Executive Annabelle Herd emphasized the need to uphold the integrity of the music industry, stating, "a chart that rewards unlicensed AI output would undercut the very basis of the recorded music we exist to represent." This aligns with international principles advocating for a predominantly human touch in music creation.
Source: www.fastcompany.com