The Australian music industry is in crisis, but it wasn’t always that way. In the 1990s and early 2000s, a healthy number of Aussie artists were making it to the charts. Now, local musicians are struggling to get air time and to earn a living making music.
Why Australian Music Is Disappearing
Nour Haydar speaks to culture editor Steph Harmon and data journalist Josh Nicholas about why Australian music is disappearing from the charts and what needs to be done to revive the industry.
The Data Behind the Decline
According to a recent analysis, the representation of Australian artists in the charts has dropped significantly over the past two decades. Factors include changes in radio play policies, the rise of streaming services dominated by international acts, and reduced funding for local music.
What Can Be Done?
Experts suggest increasing airtime quotas for Australian music, providing more government support, and fostering a stronger live music culture. Without intervention, the unique sound of Australian music may be at risk of extinction.
Read more: Is Australian music at risk of extinction? Here’s what the data tells us.
