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ARTICLE · 14 AUGUST 2014

Copyright amendments foreshadowed: ISPs and content providers beware

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Proposed changes have the potential to significantly change the legal landscape for ISPs and online content providers.

AustraliaIntellectual Property
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IN BRIEF

The Australian Attorney-General has released its public consultation paper regarding Online Copyright Infringement. The consultation foreshadows significant amendments to the Copyright Act 1968 (Cth) that have the potential to significantly change the legal landscape for ISPs and online content providers. Submissions are due 1 September 2014.

SCOPE OF CONSULTATION

According to a recent PwC study, online copyright infringement poses a significant threat to Australia's copyright industries which employs over 900,000 individuals, and generates considerable economic income. Reducing online copyright infringement is key to protecting the industry.

Whilst the AG's consultation paper recognises that there are a number of factors that contribute to online copyright infringement, including availability and affordability of content, the paper is limited to the Australian Government's response to the legal framework in relation to copyright infringement. It

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