ARIA brings back Best Alternative Release and sets AI rules for 2026 Awards – The Australian Recording Industry Association (ARIA) has unveiled the categories and eligibility criteria for the 2026 ARIA Awards, with the return of a long-awaited category and new guidance around the use of artificial intelligence in music.
Among the changes announced is the return of Best Alternative Release, marking the category’s first appearance at the ARIA Awards since 2016.
Alternative music recognised once again
The reinstated category will recognise singles and albums from one of Australia’s most distinctive and influential musical communities.
ARIA CEO Annabelle Herd said the move reflects the continued strength of the country’s alternative music scene.
“The ARIA Awards have always moved with Australian music, and the return of Best Alternative Release reflects our strength in the alternative scene and how much great music is being made in that space,” Herd said.
The category’s return is likely to be welcomed by artists and fans alike, providing renewed recognition for musicians working outside mainstream genres.
ARIA outlines AI eligibility requirements
ARIA has also clarified its position on the growing use of artificial intelligence in music production.
Under the updated criteria, recordings that incorporate AI-generated elements may still be eligible for consideration, but only if a human remains the primary creator.
According to ARIA, the human contribution must be “substantial and meaningful”, with AI prohibited from being the sole or central creative element of any work submitted for entry.
The organisation has also stipulated that any AI tools used during the creative process must be authorised and lawful.
The announcement comes as award bodies and creative industries around the world continue to grapple with the implications of emerging AI technologies.
Changes to soundtrack category entries
For the first time, non-ARIA members will be permitted to enter the Best Original Soundtrack or Musical Theatre Cast Album category.
While ARIA members will continue to receive complimentary entry, non-members will be required to pay an entry fee of $400 plus GST.
ARIA has confirmed that an online submission portal for non-members will open in the coming weeks.
Keeping pace with Australian music
Herd said the latest updates were designed to ensure the awards remain relevant while maintaining a fair and transparent entry process.
“The rest of this year’s changes are about keeping entry clear and fair, from how we recognise the engineers behind a record to making sure the work entered contains human artistry and is not generated using illegal AI tools,” she said.
The full eligibility criteria for the 2026 ARIA Awards are now available to ARIA members via the ARIA website.
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ARIA brings back Best Alternative Release and sets AI rules for 2026 Awards
