During 2007 the Association invited Professional Members to have their say and vote on changes to the Rules effective for the 2009 Awards eligibility timeframe. A number of categories have had a makeover and three now require the nominated track to come from an eligible album (Male Artist, Female Artist and Group or Duo).
The eligibility dates have also changed, and will become fully effective for the 2010 Awards to be 1st October through to 30th September. 2009 is a transition year and as such has an 11 month eligibility period from 1st November 2007 through to 30th September 2008. Most important to note is that the closing date for nominations is close of business Monday, 15th September, 2008.
A significant revamp of the judging process will see a greater involvement by CMAA Professional Members, who will be invited to vote in Round Two of the judging in mid November to decide the winners in 11 of the 12 voted categories. Round One judging will be completed by Industry Judges along with specialist Bush Ballad judges.
All of the changes have been incorporated into a new look, user-friendly, downloadable Nomination Booklet.
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