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ARTICLE · 31 AUGUST 2025

Moral Rights and Films – McCallum v Projector Films Pty Ltd

Piper Alderman
Piper Alderman
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Piper Alderman

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For authors, being aware of the moral rights to proper attribution and not to be falsely attributed is important to avoid unnecessary potential disputes with parties using their work.

AustraliaIntellectual Property
Tim O’Callaghan
Tim O’Callaghan
Travis Shueard
Travis Shueard
Travis Shueard
Travis Shueard
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A recent Federal Court interlocutory decision underscores the moral rights of film directors under the Copyright Act 1968 (Cth) (Copyright Act) to proper attribution for cinematograph films. It also highlights the importance for authors and creators more broadly to be aware of and protect their moral rights.

In McCallum v Projector Films Pty Ltd, Stephen McCallum successfully obtained interim injunctive orders against the respondents, Projector Films Pty Ltd and fellow filmmaker, David Ngo. The Court restrained the screening or promotion of the film "Never Get Busted!" unless it included the credit "Directed by Stephen McCallum." It also restrained the film from attributing credit to Mr Ngo until final determination at trial.

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