NZAVA – Association of Voice Artists

Voice Artists & Artificial Intelligence: Resources & Protection 

Artificial intelligence (AI) broadly refers to computers performing tasks that once required human intelligence and capabilities, from voice assistants to autonomous vehicles. In this context, we use AI to refer primarily to synthesised speech—a digitally replicated voice narrating text—which is a key concern for voice artists. As the field evolves, terminology may change, but we use the umbrella term ‘AI’ here for clarity.

About This Initiative 

The New Zealand voice acting community has been actively working together through Equity NZ’s AI in VO Subcommittee – a dedicated group of voice artists, voice agents, and loop-group coordinators addressing the rapidly evolving challenges and opportunities presented by artificial intelligence in our industry. This subcommittee is working toward establishing the New Zealand Association of Voice Artists (NZAVA), modeled after successful international organizations. 

Our committee aims to replicate protections and resources similar to those developed by the Australian Association of Voice Artists (AAVA) and the National Association of Voice Artists (NAVA) in the United States. Both organizations work closely with their respective unions (MEAA and SAG-AFTRA) and have generously agreed to share their resources to help New Zealand voice artists navigate this rapidly evolving landscape. 

NZAVA’s Vision
AI should be used as a TOOL, and NOT a REPLACEMENT for voice artists.

NZAVA’s Core Mission
To advocate for, educate about, and ensure inclusion around the presence of AI in the voice-over industry, while protecting the rights and livelihoods of New Zealand voice artists

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Ethical AI Use in Voice Work

WHERE AI CAN ENHANCE (with proper consent & compensation): 

  • Efficiency improvements in post-production 
  • Emergency fixes when talent cannot return to studio (with communication and agreement) 
  • Time-saving tools that don’t compromise creativity 
  • Technical enhancements that support rather than replace performance 

WHERE AI SHOULD NOT BE USED: 

  • Complete replacement of voice talent 
  • Creation of voice libraries without ongoing consent and compensation 
  • Projects requiring emotional depth, cultural sensitivity, or creative interpretation 
  • Long-form content like audiobooks or educational material where human connection matters 

WHAT VOICE ARTISTS NEED TO KNOW ABOUT AI 

Artificial Intelligence is transforming the voice acting industry through: 

  • Synthetic Voices: Computer-generated voices that can mimic human speech patterns 
  • Digital Doubles: AI recreations of specific voice artists’ vocal characteristics 
  • Voice Clones: Technology that can replicate individual voices from audio samples 
  • Generative AI: Systems that can create new voice content based on existing recordings 

KEY CONCERNS FOR VOICE ARTISTS 

The voice acting community has raised critical concerns about: 

Immediate Threats: 

  • Voice Mining: Concerns that existing recordings are being used to train AI systems without consent 
  • Replacement vs Enhancement: AI being used to replace rather than assist voice artists 
  • Contract Language: Subtle terms like “simulation,” “synthesization,” “digital double,” and “machine learning” appearing in contracts 
  • Library Creation: Unauthorized databases of voices being created for future use 

Long-term Protection Needs: 

  • Consent: Ensuring voice artists have control over how their voices are used 
  • Fair Compensation: Appropriate payment when AI systems use voice artists’ work or likeness 
  • Transparency: Clear disclosure when AI-generated voices are used 
  • Cultural Sensitivity: Protecting proper pronunciation of Māori and other languages 
  • Artistic Integrity: Maintaining the human element in storytelling and performance 

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Equity NZ Contract Guidelines 

Essential Contract Protections 

As per Equity NZ guidelines, all voice artist contracts should include: 

  • Performer Consent: Clear ability for the performer to consent to AI use 
  • Explicit Usage Limits: Defined boundaries on AI/Synthetic voice results and machine training 
  • Opt-Out Provisions: Ability to withdraw consent or set term limits for AI use 
  • Fair Compensation: Appropriate payment structure for AI-enhanced work 
  • Exclusivity Clauses: Clear definition of exclusive vs. non-exclusive AI usage rights 
  • Secure Storage: Safe storage and tracking of voice recordings and AI-generated products 

Red Flag 🚩 Contract Language 

Watch for these terms that may indicate AI usage: 

  • “Simulation” 
  • “Synthesization” 
  • “Digital double” 
  • “Machine learning” 
  • “Voice modeling” 
  • “Synthetic reproduction” 

Important: If you encounter these terms, take the job but report the contract language to Equity NZ. Do not risk your employment – let Equity be the enforcer. 

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Industry Standards We’re Working Toward 

  • Standardized AI clauses across all voice agencies 
  • Clear licensing terms for voice cloning and digital reproduction 
  • Unified rate structures that prevent undercutting 
  • Educational resources for clients about AI consent and fair use

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Current Industry Developments 

What’s Already Happening? 

Major Industry Changes: 

  • Large production companies are acquiring smaller studios specifically to implement AI across all advertising production roles 
  • Companies like WPP are updating contracts to include AI usage clauses for talent 
  • Voice synthesis is becoming prevalent in audiobook production globally 
  • International unions (SAG-AFTRA) have established precedents through recent strike actions 

Copyright Realities: 

  • Current copyright law protects recordings, not the voices themselves 
  • Producers typically own the recordings they commission 
  • Voice artists can only rely on contractual protections 
  • The No-Fakes Act focuses on misinformation rather than commercial exploitation 

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Support & Taking Action 

Immediate Actions for Voice Artists 

  • Review Your Contracts: Look for AI-related language and report concerning clauses to Equity NZ 
  • Document Everything: Keep records of any requests for additional voice samples or unusual contract terms 
  • Join the Committee: Connect with NZAVA’s organizing committee 
  • Stay Informed: Monitor international developments through AAVA and NAVA resources 
  • Educate Clients: Use available resources to inform producers about fair AI practices 

For Agents and Representatives 

  • Implement Standard Clauses: Work toward unified AI protection language across all agencies 
  • Client Education: Proactively discuss AI implications with producers 
  • Industry Collaboration: Participate in developing industry-wide standards 
  • Legal Compliance: Ensure all AI-related contracts meet current legal requirements

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Legislative Advocacy 

Current Efforts: 

  • Engaging with the NZ Council of Trade Unions on AI policy development 
  • Preparing for future SIWA (Screen Industry Workers Agreement) negotiations 
  • Building relationships with SPADA (Screen Production and Development Association) 
  • Monitoring international legal developments for New Zealand application 

Long-term Goals 

  • NZAVA Establishment: Creating a formal New Zealand Association of Voice Artists 
  • Legal Protections: Advocating for legislative protections for voice artists 
  • Industry Standards: Establishing universal contract terms and rate structures 
  • Education Programs: Developing resources for tertiary institutions and new professionals 

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Contact & Further Information 

Equity NZ Support 

For questions about implementing AI protections in your voice work, contact: mail@actorsequity.org.nz 

Committee Involvement 

To participate in ongoing discussions about voice artist AI protections: mail@actorsequity.org.nz 

International Resources 

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Resources & Documentation 

International Agreements & Templates 

Australian Association of Voice Artists (AAVA)
AAVA Voice Actor Generative AI Agreement 

Purpose: Replacement for the previous “AI Rider,” specifically designed for Australian laws 

Created by: Arts Law Centre of Australia
Features:

  • Stand-alone document or contract addendum 
  • Fillable PDF format for easy use 
  • Client education about AI consent expectations 
  • Protection for voice talent rights 
  • Status: Free to use, share with clients, and adapt 


National Association of Voice Artists (NAVA) – USA
NAVA Synthetic AI Resources 

  • Original AI Rider: Foundation document that inspired international adaptations 
  • Ongoing updates: Regular updates reflecting industry developments 

Document Downloads & Links 

Primary Resources 

New Zealand-Specific Resources: 

Industry Analysis & Articles of Interest: 

Professional Development: 

 

This page is maintained by Equity NZ in collaboration with the NZAVA organizing committee. Resources are updated regularly as the industry and legal landscape evolve. For the most current information and to join our advocacy efforts, contact us directly. 

Last updated: 16/06/2025