8/04/2026

There’s been plenty happening in advocacy over the last month, with major policy discussions underway that will shape the future of Australia’s publishing industry. From the next National Cultural Policy to fast-moving developments in AI and copyright, the decisions and policies made now will have long-term implications for Australian publishers.

We are seeing increased coordination across the creative industries, alongside intensified engagement from global technology companies seeking to influence regulatory outcomes. This has created a complex and rapidly evolving environment – one that requires a clear, consistent and united voice from the publishing sector. The APA is actively representing members across all of these fronts. Our focus remains on ensuring that policies support a sustainable publishing industry where Australian stories are protected and fairly licensed.

National Cultural Policy consultation 

Consultation for the next National Cultural Policy is open until 24 May 2026. The policy will build on the Revive framework and address emerging priorities such as audience engagement and new technologies. The APA is preparing a sector-wide submission and welcomes member input. To contribute, contact Stuart Glover at [email protected]. Once finalised, members will be invited to support the submission with their own, using a provided template and guidance. This is an important opportunity to ensure publishing is strongly represented – broad participation will strengthen the sector’s voice.

Sector policy briefings – registrations now open

The APA’s Head of Policy, Dr Stuart Glover, will deliver biannual briefings for the trade and educational publishing sectors, covering key developments in AI and copyright, the next National Cultural Policy, and policy settings affecting schools, tertiary, scholarly and journal publishing.

These online sessions are open to all APA Full Members:

Trade publishers – 7 May, 12–1pm AEST. Register here
Educational publishers – 14 May, 12–1pm AEST. Register here

APA in Canberra over AI & Copyright 

The APA, ASA and Copyright Agency and other Creative industry rightsholders united in Canberra for the Powering Intelligence event at Parliament House on 26 March, presenting a coordinated response to growing AI policy pressures. The event reinforced a clear message: licensing works, and AI developers must seek permission and pay fairly. Attorney-General Michelle Rowland reinforced the government’s commitment to copyright, noting that existing laws remain the foundation for AI use of creative content. This was welcomed following comments by Assistant Minister Andrew Charlton suggesting the current system is “not working.” AG added to the ambiguity according to the Australian Financial Review in subsequent reporting – highlighting the need for clearer, consistent policy signals.