Let NZ Businesses play the radio without unnecessary fees
Let NZ Businesses play the radio without unnecessary fees
The issue
We, the undersigned, call on the Government of New Zealand to review and reform the current music licensing requirements that prevent small businesses from freely playing radios in client-facing settings.
Background
Under the Copyright Act 1994, playing music in a business environment is considered a “public performance.” Even if it’s just a radio playing in the background, businesses must purchase a licence through OneMusic (a joint venture of APRA AMCOS and Recorded Music NZ).
This law means many workplaces—such as salons, workshops, and small offices—are restricted from playing something as simple as the radio unless they pay additional fees. Businesses that don’t comply risk being fined.
Why This Matters
Community & Culture – Local radio connects people to community news, music, and culture. Restricting it in everyday workplaces hurts both listeners and broadcasters.
Atmosphere & Wellbeing – Music reduces stress, improves morale, and creates a more welcoming environment for clients and staff alike.
Unfair Burden on Small Businesses – Many small business owners are unaware of these laws until contacted by enforcement agencies, leaving them facing unexpected costs. For some, the cost of compliance is disproportionate to their size or income.
Red Tape & Complexity – Even if a business only wants to play talkback radio or a sports broadcast, the same licensing applies.
What We’re Asking For
We urge the New Zealand Government to:
1. Create a free or low-cost “radio-only” licence for small businesses.
2. Simplify the system so business owners can easily understand what’s required.
3. Offer relief or exemptions for micro-businesses where background music is a minor, non-commercial feature.
4. Ensure fairness so that enjoying the radio in a workplace is not treated the same as running a nightclub.
Our Vision
We believe businesses should be free to play the radio for their staff and clients without unnecessary fees or fear of penalties. A fair, modern approach would keep supporting artists while also respecting the realities of small business life.
📢 Sign this petition to call for change. Let’s make it possible for Kiwi businesses to enjoy the simple pleasure of radio again—without red tape.
3
The issue
We, the undersigned, call on the Government of New Zealand to review and reform the current music licensing requirements that prevent small businesses from freely playing radios in client-facing settings.
Background
Under the Copyright Act 1994, playing music in a business environment is considered a “public performance.” Even if it’s just a radio playing in the background, businesses must purchase a licence through OneMusic (a joint venture of APRA AMCOS and Recorded Music NZ).
This law means many workplaces—such as salons, workshops, and small offices—are restricted from playing something as simple as the radio unless they pay additional fees. Businesses that don’t comply risk being fined.
Why This Matters
Community & Culture – Local radio connects people to community news, music, and culture. Restricting it in everyday workplaces hurts both listeners and broadcasters.
Atmosphere & Wellbeing – Music reduces stress, improves morale, and creates a more welcoming environment for clients and staff alike.
Unfair Burden on Small Businesses – Many small business owners are unaware of these laws until contacted by enforcement agencies, leaving them facing unexpected costs. For some, the cost of compliance is disproportionate to their size or income.
Red Tape & Complexity – Even if a business only wants to play talkback radio or a sports broadcast, the same licensing applies.
What We’re Asking For
We urge the New Zealand Government to:
1. Create a free or low-cost “radio-only” licence for small businesses.
2. Simplify the system so business owners can easily understand what’s required.
3. Offer relief or exemptions for micro-businesses where background music is a minor, non-commercial feature.
4. Ensure fairness so that enjoying the radio in a workplace is not treated the same as running a nightclub.
Our Vision
We believe businesses should be free to play the radio for their staff and clients without unnecessary fees or fear of penalties. A fair, modern approach would keep supporting artists while also respecting the realities of small business life.
📢 Sign this petition to call for change. Let’s make it possible for Kiwi businesses to enjoy the simple pleasure of radio again—without red tape.
3
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Petition created on 18 August 2025