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Association of Independent Record Labels

A national association for independent artists, record labels and distributors

The Association of Independent Record Labels (AIR) is a non-profit, non-government association, which supports the growth and development of Australia’s independent recording sector. AIR represents Australian owned record labels and independent artists based in Australia. AIR’s primary purpose is to foster an increasing marketplace for Australian independent music and assist in the long-term development, growth and success of Australia’s independent recording industry.

AIR is a trade body that negotiates with industry and government to facilitate deals for the benefit of the industry. The association aims to help all companies through offering information, advice and exclusive member services. It achieves this through business development seminars, commercial negotiation, lobbying and advocacy, domestic and international trade promotion and by assisting with access to international markets.

AIR is a member of the Worldwide Independent Network (WIN), a group of international music associations who collectively advocate for fair and competitive market access for independent music.

AIR was founded in July of 1995 by Sydney and Melbourne music professionals Ed Jonker, Michael McMichael, Sebastian Chase and Graeme Reagan. The original aim of AIR was to assemble a group of independent recording labels in order to form an association that could assist the development of Australia’s independent record industry.

AIR began as a small association, which had 25 members, which has since grown to over 350 financial members across all sectors of the Australian music industry.

Last updated by Hoda Toloui-Wallace (2011-10-29)