Competition Commission proposes changes to performing rights licences
The Australian Competition and Consumer Commission has proposed that the Australasian Performing Right Association, which holds the rights for the performance of almost all music in Australia, be required to create a plain English guide to its licensing schemes and to make improvements to its dispute resolution process.
The ACCC said the public benefit test had been met
The proposal comes after concerns were raised by small business users who had difficulty understanding APRA’s licensing system and a limited ability to dispute APRA’s decisions.
A large number of businesses, including retail businesses, hospitality venues and broadcasters, must purchase a licence from APRA to broadcast music, the ACCC noted.
ACCC Commissioner Dr Jill Walker said that, as a virtual monopoly, APRA has significant market power in relation to its dealings with users and its arrangements can also create inefficiencies for its members.
The ACCC said that the move would benefit the public interest.