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Copyright for libraries and archives

The Australian Libraries and Archives Copyright Coalition is the primary policy body for copyright issues affecting the library, archive and information sectors in Australia. We provide advocacy, government advice, training and resources.

Training

Find out about our face-to-face and online copyright training, free for most Australian librarians and archivists.
Resources

Free online resources about Australian copyright law for libraries and archives, from fact sheets to slides to publications.
Advocacy

Learn how we are fighting to make copyright work for libraries and archives.
News

Our latest news, including blog posts and media releases.
  • Blog Posts
Featured

Job opportunity: Copyright Law and Policy Adviser

Come work for the ALACC.
  • Quick Info
Featured
A blue copyright symbol is spray painted on a cream-coloured wall.

A short introduction to copyright

Our Short introduction to copyright provides a solid overview of the key elements of copyright law in Australia.
  • Quick Info
Featured
A child wearing a knight costume and holding a home-made shield and battle axe made out of cardboard and aluminium foil.

Material protected by copyright

Material must fall into one of the two categories of things to be protected by copyright: Works and subject-matter other than works.
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Featured
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Rights in copyright

Copyright isn't a single right – it's a number of rights!
  • Quick Info
Featured
A photo of an art deco clock showing the time as 1:31. The clock features a white face with large black numbers and hour and minute hands.

Duration of copyright

The term of copyright is long, but it doesn't last forever.
  • Quick Info
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Noninfringing uses of copyright

Not every use of copyright protected material is an infringement.
  • Other Resources

Australian Inclusive Publishing Initiative (AIPI)

A cross-industry initiative made up of to address the challenge of improving access to books by people living with a print accessibility.
  • Quick Info
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Ownership of copyright

It is important to know who is the owner of copyright.
  • Quick Info
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The history of copyright

Understanding the history of copyright law can help you understand what copyright is. The modern copyright system is informed by copyright’s history.
  • FAQs
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What is the process for document supply?

I know I can supply materials to clients, but what is the process I need to follow?
Credits

Heading and body font: ‘Poppins’ 2014–2019, Indian Type Foundry. Font downloads available on Github, github.com/itfoundry/poppins. Web fonts available on Google Fonts, fonts.google.com/specimen/Poppins. Available for reuse under the terms of the SIL Open Font License, scripts.sil.org/OFL.

Support Our Work

Associations and institutions are welcome to apply to become members of the ALCC.

Individuals sign up for our newsletter so we can let you know about our training and advocacy activities.