October 2021

APRA 2021 board election now open for voting!

I’ve decided to run as a candidate at this year’s APRA board election.

Voting will be open from today until November 16. Log into the APRA AMCOS writer portal and click on the
​'Cast your vote!' link.

This year there will be two vacancies, with Chris Neal retiring permanently after 21 years on the board.

I’ve put my hand up for a position on the board because I think it’s important that Chris’ seat be filled by another screen composer. We need strong representation on the board so our voices are heard. 

I’m hoping to gain your support and would be honoured to receive your endorsement.

Thank you for taking the time to read this.

Here is my election statement:

As a screen composer with over 35 years of experience in the local and international film & TV industry, I’ve always been passionate about the rights of musicians and composers.  I came to appreciate very early on in my career the critical role that APRA plays in supporting music creators.Apart from my professional career as a screen composer, I have also had extensive experience dealing with major record labels, publishing companies and independent aggregators through my soundtrack releases.
Our industry has entered a period of significant change via the rapidly evolving streaming platforms for both music and visual content.
Music creators from all sectors of the industry face a very challenging time in not only retaining the rights to their compositions but also receiving fair remuneration for their works.
Royalties are an essential part of a composer’s and musician’s income and APRA plays a vital role in enabling music creators to have a sustainable career.
Having been involved in an ongoing consultation process with APRA on canvassing possible changes in how streaming revenue is distributed to members, it’s become clear to me that APRA management is dealing with complex issues that will have a lasting impact on current and future writer members.
As a way of helping both emerging and established screen composers navigate this increasingly complex work environment, six years ago I co-founded a local support network in Melbourne. This has evolved into well attended quarterly gatherings where issues are raised, questions are answered, experiences are shared and emerging composers are mentored.
As it’s been almost 8 years since APRA last had a Victoria based writer/director on the board, I would welcome the opportunity to contribute to its role in serving and supporting the diverse APRA writer membership and advocating on their behalf.
If elected as a writer/director on the APRA board I would be 100% committed to representing the best interests of my fellow music creators.
I believe my extensive industry experience puts me in a good position to provide valuable insight and meaningful input to any board debate.