AI, Copyright and the Future of NZ Music: Recorded Music publishes position paperSeptember 16, 2026

Generative AI is moving fast and we need government and political parties to get on board with our music sector – to protect human artistry and maintain robust copyright law.

Recorded Music NZ has today published its position paper and is continuing conversations with Ministers, MPs, officials and political parties.

In Australia and other markets, some AI companies have been pushing to weaken copyright protection and push for government to impose frameworks that would take the choice away from rights holders and artists.

That is why we are asking government and political parties here in Aotearoa to commit to these three practical measures:

• Hold the line on copyright law: Maintain robust rights – if AI companies want to use music they can seek a licence in the usual way.
• Require meaningful transparency: AI companies should keep copies of the material they train on. Transparency is essential to support licensing, accountability and informed decision-making.
• Take a proactive and coordinated approach to AI: The potential harms of AI are not limited to copyright and it is essential that government takes a joined up approach to regulate AI and support people and businesses from Aotearoa.

We encourage you to share this position widely including with your local MP – let’s stand together to support human artistry and maintain robust copyright law.