Vinyl, CDs, and cassettes are surging in Australia, driven by artists and fans seeking better pay and tangible connections amid low streaming payouts.

Vinyl, CDs, and cassettes are seeing a resurgence in Australia, with vinyl sales reaching over 1.1 million units in 2024—tenfold since 2012—driven by artists seeking better income and deeper fan connections amid low streaming payouts. Independent musicians and labels are turning to physical formats for higher profits, with small production runs of CDs, cassettes, and vinyls selling for $15–$100. Cassettes, once nearly obsolete, are experiencing renewed demand, fueled by young fans drawn to bold designs and tactile ownership. Businesses like Melbourne’s Dex Audio are reviving production lines to meet demand, while artists including Taylor Swift and King Gizzard & the Lizard Wizard promote physical releases with collectible editions. The trend reflects a cultural shift toward owning music, valuing permanence and personal connection over digital streaming.