For the first time in its history, AusMusic T-Shirt Day (AMTD) will be championed across all of Australia’s major commercial radio networks – a national effort to celebrate local music and raise funds for Support Act, the charity supporting the people behind it.
From now until Thursday 27 November, more than 260 stations nationwide will dedicate airtime, advertising inventory and on-air talent to spotlight the campaign and inspire Australians to wear their favourite AusMusic T-shirt, donate and celebrate.
The unprecedented collaboration brings together Southern Cross Austereo (SCA), NOVA Entertainment, the Australian Radio Network (ARN), ACE Radio Network and Nine Radio, marking what organisers call a “historic moment” for the campaign’s growth and reach.
Industry-wide effort to support music workers
Support Act CEO Clive Miller said the cross-network collaboration recognises the essential role radio plays in championing Australian stories.
“Australian music is central to our culture, and commercial radio plays a vital role in sharing those stories with the nation,” Miller said.
“We’re thrilled to have every major network join AusMusic T-Shirt Day this year to celebrate AusMusic and the people who create it – while raising vital funds for those music workers who are doing it tough.”
Rachel Campbell, Campaign Director for AusMusic T-Shirt Day, described the initiative as a symbol of unity and resilience across the industry.
“This collaboration was envisioned as a celebration of the resilience and creativity of the people behind Australian music – a broad, united coalition with a clear purpose: to support the health and wellbeing of Australian music workers.”
Radio networks show their colours
The campaign has inspired collective support from the country’s biggest audio players, each emphasising the importance of radio’s role in sustaining Australia’s music culture.
Matthew O’Reilly, Head of Broadcast Content at SCA, said: “AusMusic T-Shirt Day is a chance for the Hit and Triple M Networks to stand with our colleagues and recognise the people behind the music.”
Brendan Taylor, Group Programming Director at NOVA Entertainment, added: “NOVA is proud to support AusMusic T-Shirt Day and give back to the community that fuels our passion for music.”
Lauren Joyce, Chief Audience and Content Officer at ARN, said the day shines a light on those often unseen in the industry: “AusMusic T-Shirt Day is a powerful opportunity to spotlight the crews and workers who keep our airwaves full of music.”
Greg Byrnes, Head of Content at Nine Radio, said: “When radio unites behind a cause like AusMusic T-Shirt Day, we can share stories that truly matter to Australians.”
Mat Cummins, Group Content Director at ACE Radio Network, said regional stations were proud to join the movement: “Regional radio has always been about championing local voices. AusMusic T-Shirt Day is a moment to unite behind the music that brings our communities together.”
Lizzie Young, CEO of Commercial Radio & Audio (CRA), said the initiative underscores the industry’s ability to connect Australians: “Commercial Radio & Audio is proud to stand alongside our members to support AusMusic T-Shirt Day, using our unique connection with local communities to celebrate Australian music and the people who make it possible.”
A day of joy and recognition
AusMusic T-Shirt Day, launched nationally in 2015 by triple j and ARIA, has grown into a major annual event, celebrating local artists and the teams who sustain them.
This year’s theme – “Show Up for AusMusic” – calls on Australians to wear, donate and celebrate.
Proceeds go directly to Support Act, which provides mental health and financial support to music workers facing hardship.
Supporters can join the movement by visiting ausmusictshirtday.org.au
to purchase a shirt, make a donation, and post their support online using the hashtags #AusMusicTShirtDay and #ShowUpForAusMusic.