MIPI Issues DJ Licences

A new licence for DJs to legally transfer music onto their laptops leaves pirate DJs with no excuses for using illegal music at their gigs, warned Music Industry Piracy Investigations (MIPI).

According to the organisation, the new ARIA DJ licence 'creates a one-stop shop for DJs to get permission from most major record labels to format shift their music for use at gigs', while a corresponding licence is also being offered for the musical works by the music publishers through AMCOS.

MIPI General Manager Sabiene Heindl stated that "widespread music piracy by DJs across Australia undermines the fabric of the music industry.

"If the people who rely on music to make a living are ripping it off...what chances does the industry have to properly renumerate [sic] artists and songwriters-"

The statement also affects bars and clubs around the country, who are being urged to ensure DJs are not breaking the law, which could lead to massive fines for the establishments.

MIPI has relaunched its guide entitled "Music for DJs - Are You Doing the Right Thing" which is available at
their website to incorporate the new DJ licence.

Criminal penalties for DJs involved in music piracy are up to $60,500 and 5 years imprisonment per offence.

On-the-spot fines of $1,320 may also apply. Owners or operators of bars or nightclubs may also be held liable for authorizing copyright infringement at their premises by allowing the DJ to use pirate discs or illegal MP3 files.

To obtain copies of the DJ licences: e-mail the ARIA licensing department at licensing.mail@aria.com.au and the AMCOS non-retail licensing department at nonretlic@apra.com.au. Tags

• mipi
• aria
• dj licence