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ARTICLE · 13 NOVEMBER 2015

Can anyone really own Waltzing Matilda?

Stacks Law Firm
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Copyright and trade mark ownership are important business assets so you should review IP protections that are in place.

AustraliaIntellectual Property
Michael McHugh
Michael McHugh
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Country singer John Williamson says he'd rather go to jail than pay someone for the right to sing Waltzing Matilda. Williamson has led thousands of Aussie supporters at sporting events belting out the stirring song to boost our players. It's our answer to the All Blacks' fearsome haka. Aussie travellers sing it in pubs around the world. We sing it with pride on Australia Day. The song, written by bush poet Banjo Paterson in 1895 is a core ingredient of Aussie Culture.

Williamson spoke out after fears the iconic national song could be snapped up under trademark registration. Queensland independent Bob Katter said he'd introduce legislation to parliament that would reject trademark registration if it covers something of national significance.

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