‘Fire Fight’ album has raised half a million dollars for bushfire victims

The Fire Fight Australia concert may have taken place back in February, but the gig continues to bring in money for bushfire victims via the Artists Unite for Fire Fight: Concert for National Bushfire Relief album.

The charity album, which debuted at #1 on the ARIA Albums Chart, was recorded during the historic concert at ANZ Stadium. Now Sony Music Entertainment has revealed the album hit a new milestone, raising $520,000 from its sales.

The money raised has come from sales of the album itself, as well as retailers including JB Hi-Fi and Sanity, who are donating their profits. Meanwhile, Apple has been donating all proceeds from iTunes sales of the album.

Geoff Jones (CEO, TEG), Tim McGregor (Managing Director, TEG Live) and Sandra Rouse (CFO, TEG), were recognised for their efforts with special #1 awards, presented by Sony Music.

“It is an incredible milestone to have now exceeded half a million dollars for people in communities who continue to rebuild even in these difficult times,” said Denis Handlin AO, chairman and CEO of Sony Music Entertainment Australia and New Zealand.

“Our heartfelt thanks again go to everyone involved, especially the artists and the Australian public who have made this album a resounding success. Our thanks also go to Geoff Jones, Paul Dainty and our friends at TEG, who without them, there would have been no concert.

“We also would not have been able to reach this significant amount of funds raised for those in need without the support of all our valued partners.”

The 23-track Artists Unite For Fire Fight features unique live recordings from every artist who performed at the historic Fire Fight concert for Australia’s bushfire-affected communities.

Those performers and songwriters have all donated their royalties from the album sales too, with proceeds going through the Sony Foundation Australia to fund projects benefiting young Australians in bushfire affected communities.

Performer Amy Shark was on hand too and said it was an “honour” to have been a part of the event.

“To see the outpouring of love and support from people across the country in connection with the concert and album, truly personifies the Australian spirit. Thank you to everyone who has contributed to this outstanding cause,” she said.

The foundation has already delivered grants valued at $200,000 to two schools in NSW,

As of July, a total of $10.2 million had been raised since the event on February 16.