TLDR: The Country Music Association of Australia (CMAA) has announced a significant rule change for the 2026 Golden Guitar Awards, prohibiting all AI-generated content in submissions. This decision follows the detection of several entirely AI-created entries, prompting the CMAA to reinforce its commitment to human artistry in country music.
Tamworth, NSW – September 19, 2025 – The Country Music Association of Australia (CMAA) has taken a decisive stand against artificial intelligence in music, announcing a new policy for the 2026 Golden Guitar Awards that will only accept submissions created entirely by humans. This landmark decision comes after the discovery of multiple AI-generated entries among the submissions for the upcoming awards, triggering an immediate response from the CMAA Board.
Effective immediately, any song, performance, or production that incorporates AI technology – including in lyrics, melody, vocals, arrangements, or instrumentation – will be deemed ineligible. To ensure compliance, all entrants will now be required to provide a signed acknowledgment confirming that their work was created without the use of artificial intelligence.
CMAA Chairman Dobe Newton articulated the rationale behind the new rule, stating, “The use of AI to generate musical works is fundamentally at odds with the heritage and intent of our Awards which were created to celebrate the creativity of our songwriters, musicians, performers and producers. While we welcome technology that supports and enhances creativity, we are resolute that it must never replace human artistry. For 54 years, the Golden Guitar Awards have honoured excellence in Australian country music, fuelled by authentic human creativity.”
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This move by the Golden Guitar Awards reflects a growing global concern within the music industry regarding the rapid advancement and integration of AI tools. While acknowledging the potential for AI to assist in the creative process, the CMAA’s updated policy underscores a commitment to preserving the authenticity and human element at the core of Australian country music. The organization also cited broader economic impacts as a factor in its decision. The new policy aims to reinforce the awards’ dedication to celebrating genuine, human-powered creativity.
