Songwriters who play live are encouraged to submit their APRA AMCOS Performance Reports by 31 July to get paid for their work.

Last year, more than $4.5 million in royalties was distributed among the thousands of APRA AMCOS members who took the time to lodge Performance Reports (previously known as Live Performance Returns or LPRs).

These funds are a welcome source of revenue for songwriters, who often put their earnings straight back into their careers.

Award-winning South Australian singer/songwriter Kelly Menhennett spends a lot of time on the road, and plays venues and festivals across the country.

Kelly, who received the Ryan Freeman Live Music Award at the 2015 SA Music Awards, plays at least 50 shows a year, and said that live performance royalties help to keep her on the road.

“As a full time musician, my annual live performance royalties provide a substantial income stream which I re-invest into my music,” she said. “I can pay for things such as music insurance, touring expenses and musical equipment.”

Along with the financial return, Performance Report payments also acknowledge the skill, effort and creativity that goes into crafting a song.

Queensland songwriter Roz Pappalardo, one half of folk pop duo Women in Docs, said it’s just as important for her work to be respected as it is to receive a royalty cheque.

“Live performance royalties help me to believe that our art is relevant and needed by our community. It’s important to submit your reports so you can be recognised as a writer and appreciated for your art form.”

APRA AMCOS members who play live should submit their Performance Reports by 31 July to ensure they get paid.

To help writers meet this deadline, APRA AMCOS staff will be at the Grace Emily Hotel, Adelaide at 6pm on 7 July to answer Performance Report queries and lend a hand with the online submission process.

Members who are unable to attend can contact the APRA AMCOS SA office for assistance with their Performance Reports: sa@apra.com.au or (08) 8331 5800.

APRA AMCOS Performance Reports Workshop

Venue: Grace Emily Hotel, 32-238 Waymouth St, Adelaide
Date: July 7 2016, 6pm – 7.30pm
Bring: A laptop and details of the shows you’ve played in the past 12 months RSVP: By 29 June to sa@apra.com.au

This is an 18+ event and places are limited – please book early.