272._org_Music Victoria

Subject: ALRC Review - ‘Copyright and the Digital Economy’ - FTAO Professor Jill McKeough
Dear Madam
Music Victoria is the independent representative organisation for contemporary music in Victoria. Its 700 members include music fans, musicians, small businesses, live music venues, tour managers, band bookers, promoters and other industry employees.
We believe we are well placed to comment on the issues currently under consideration by the Commission in respect of its inquiry into ‘Copyright and the Digital Economy’, particularly as to how it relates to the music industry (including recording artists and composers) in Victoria.  Due to limited resources, Music Victoria is not in a position to lodge detailed submissions on all the points raised in the Issues Paper.  We have, however, had an opportunity to review the submissions of the Phonographic Performance Company of Australia (PPCA), the Australian Recording Industry Association (ARIA), and Music Rights Australia and endorse those submissions.
In our view the development of the digital economy does not mean that further copyright exceptions or statutory licences should be introduced.  The music industry has responded to the developing market and related services with innovative licensing models, and these have resulted in increased access to music for consumers.  Despite the growth in the digital sector industry revenues have severely declined over the last decade, and recording artists and independent labels continue to struggle to build sustainable careers.  Investment in the sector is likely to be further undermined by any amendments that reduce the protection sound recordings currently enjoy, or increase uncertainty in this already highly risky environment.
We do ask that the Commission consider, in particular, the submissions made by PPCA in respect of the artificial ceiling imposed on artist and label revenues through the operation of sections 152 and 199 of the Copyright Act.  Music Victoria believes that these provisions to unfairly discriminate against sound recording rights holders and recording artists, and provide an unnecessary and inequitable subsidy to the radio broadcast sector.
Yours Faithfully
Patrick Donovan
CEO
Music Victoria
Level 1, 233 Sydney Rd
PO Box 220
Brunswick VIC 3056
ph: +613 9380 1566
m: 0407 772657
fx: +613 9380 9044
patrick@musicvictoria.com.au
Facebook.com/MusicVictoriaInc
Twitter: @MusicVictoria

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