POP/ROCK - Aug. 5, 1988

The Australian government, fresh from having pumped up the country’s film industry with production incentives, is now moving to work the same sort of rough magic in the rock world. John Dawkins, Australian minister for employment, education and training, said Thursday the government has given a green light to Export Music Australia, a quasi-governmental body designed to help organize and develop promotional activities for Australian bands such as INXS, Crowded House, AC/DC and Midnight Oil. Dawkins said the government is providing no direct financial support but will give considerable political support to the project. The new company’s chairman, Chris Gilbey, said the industry could generate $80 million annually within a few years.