The newly released Dance Industry Code of Practice 2025–26 is a comprehensive, highly practical tool designed to support dancers, dance teachers and choreographers across Australia. Developed by MEAA and Dancers Australia, this latest version of the Code not only addresses pay and conditions but also outlines clear standards around contracts, workplace safety, image rights and the use of AI. It is a vital resource for anyone working in or engaging with the dance sector.
At its core, the Code acknowledges dance as professional work and seeks to eliminate a long-standing reliance on unpaid or underpaid labour. “Unpaid work undermines the sustainability of the dance industry, and devalues the quality of work and skill of all dance professionals,” the document states.
Who is Covered?
The Code applies to most types of dance employment and contracting in both live and screen contexts, including freelance, company, commercial and community work. Importantly, it explicitly covers dancers, choreographers and dance teachers and defines the professional status of each, ensuring workers can clearly identify which rates and conditions apply to them.
Exceptions include film and television work covered by existing MEAA agreements, commercial advertising, or any projects already offering more favourable rates.
Minimum Pay Rates
For the first time, the Code sets national minimums for rehearsal and performance work based on years of experience and skill level, across both live and screen settings. Dancer hourly rates begin at $51.66 for rehearsals and range up to $100.11 per hour for live performance, depending on classification. Weekly contracts for those working 38 hours or more are also defined, with detailed tables supporting clarity and transparency.
Dance teachers and choreographers also benefit from tiered rate structures, with clear classification guidelines. For freelance dance teachers, rates begin at $32.40 per hour and scale to $141.27, while choreographers receive both hourly and per-minute choreography fees, and retain copyright over their work unless otherwise agreed.
Workplace Standards and Safety
The Code formalises workplace expectations that go well beyond pay. It mandates:
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Minimum calls for rehearsals and performances
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Break times, injury leave and insurance obligations
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Gender-sensitive changing facilities and safe flooring requirements
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Adherence to national and industry safety standards, including working with children regulations
A zero-tolerance policy is also outlined for harassment, bullying and blacklisting, with dispute resolution procedures clearly defined.
Image Rights and AI
In a major development, the Code addresses emerging issues such as digital image usage and artificial intelligence. Performers must be paid if their work is recorded, with additional usage fees applicable for online or commercial distribution. The Code explicitly prohibits the use of dancers’ images for AI training, “digital doubles”, or any non-consensual future applications.
Social media use is also addressed. If a dancer is asked to participate in promotional content or account takeovers, terms must be agreed upon in writing and appropriately compensated.
Contracts and Payment Timelines
The Code includes model contracting principles, mandating 30-day payment terms and penalties for late payment. It clarifies entitlements in the event of cancellations and sets clear boundaries for “in-kind” or partially unpaid work—only allowable under specific conditions and with transparent waivers.
A Living Document for a Changing Industry
With automatic annual rate increases aligned to CPI or 4% (whichever is greater), and its detailed scope and structure, the Code positions itself as a living, adaptable framework designed to protect the rights of workers and improve sector-wide standards.
While the document is not legally binding unless formally adopted by companies, it offers a benchmark of best practice and a valuable advocacy tool. For dancers navigating employment, teachers negotiating contracts, and companies striving to meet ethical standards, this Code offers practical guidance and a clear minimum baseline.
You can access the full Code via MEAA’s website.
Dance Australia encourages all professionals in the sector to familiarise themselves with this document and use it to advocate for fairer, safer working conditions.