Music Canada welcomes $600-million audio and audiovisual pledge in Budget 2026

Music Canada says Budget 2026 reaffirms the Government of Canada's June announcement to invest $600 million in Canada's audio and audiovisual sectors, and to support Canadian content globally while keeping it affordable and accessible at home. The association published its response on Nov. 6, 2026.¹

The $600-million figure is the same one the government announced in June, and Budget 2026 restates it rather than adding a new amount, according to Music Canada. The association said it appreciates the reaffirmation.¹

We welcome the government’s renewed commitment and its recognition that Canadian content can be supported and promoted without interfering with the streaming experience Canadians love¹Patrick Rogers, CEO of Music Canada

Rogers said the regulatory framework should help Canadian artists compete in the global streaming market both at home and around the world, and that Music Canada will keep engaging with the government as it develops new streaming policy directions.¹

Music Canada also applauded the government's plan to establish a Canada Creative Credit, under which artists would receive tax relief on earned income up to $45,000. The association did not say when the credit would take effect or how many artists would qualify.¹

As a working musician, I know what it takes to build a career from the income you earn through your art¹Miranda Mulholland, Music Canada's Creative Culture Advisor

Mulholland called the credit a landmark recognition that artists are small businesses whose work drives both the economy and national identity. She said letting artists keep more of what they earn can help them invest in their next recording or further develop their craft.¹

I’m glad to see the government taking this step, and I look forward to helping make sure the credit reflects how artists actually earn a living¹Miranda Mulholland, Music Canada's Creative Culture Advisor

Music Canada said Budget 2026 also shows continued support for copyright while the government invests in AI innovation. The association said the music industry is building a global licensing marketplace for AI and developing tools for human artists, with respect for copyright at its core.¹

Music Canada is a music industry association. Its release did not name any artist, label or grant recipient affected by the $600-million commitment or the credit.¹