APRA grants a voluntarily exemption to certain performances of music by Churches (ie music used in worship services, weddings, funerals) however all other performances will require a licence from APRA.
In most cases Churches are able to meet their APRA licensing requirements through obtaining APRA’s annual Church Licence.
APRA’s annual Church licence does not extend to cover performances of copyright music at events where admission fees are charged or where professional musicians receive a form of payment or honorarium.
Churches that hold events that fall outside of the voluntary exemption or the scope of the annual Church licence may require an additional licence and will need to contact APRA to discuss the specific circumstances of their event.