Facebook’s latest licensing deal focuses on songwriters in Australia and New Zealand

Facebook marches on with its retinue of licensing partners, this time forging an international alliance. The social media company has inked an agreement with APRA AMCOS, the combined performance and mechanical rights society serving Australia and New Zealand. The deal will secure compensation for the songwriters, composers, and music publishers represented by the service when their works are used on Facebook’s platforms, including Instagram, Oculus, and Messenger along with the eponymous social network. APRA AMCOS will work with Facebook to create its rights reporting system under the terms of the partnership.

“Whether it’s live music or digital, the sustainability of Australian and New Zealand music relies on our industry working in partnership with platforms like Facebook to support new developments in music consumption, ensure the public has access to great music and that music creators have a sustainable industry that supports their careers,” said Dean Ormston, CEO of APRA AMCOS.

”We are excited to announce our partnership with APRA AMCOS. Music is an incredible source of expression and connection,” said Anjali Southward, head of international music publishing business development at Facebook. “We look forward to developing innovative ways to use music-related features to help people connect with each other, their communities and their favourite artists.”