Legal workshops
Understanding more about the law and your rights helps you to:
- use or protect copyright and moral rights legally
- understand what to consider when creating or negotiating contracts
- protect and respect Indigenous Copyright and Intellectual Property
Our workshops are delivered on request either face to face or online.
Copyright Basics For Creative People
A Quick Checklist for Artists, Makers, Musicians, Writers, Designers & Creative Businesses
1. You Made It — Copyright Exists
☐ Copyright protection arises automatically when you create an original work.
☐ Registration is not required in Australia.
2. Great Ideas Alone Aren’t Protected
☐ Ideas, styles and concepts are not protected.
☐ Original written, visual, musical and recorded expression may be protected.
3. Usually, the Creator Owns the Rights
☐ The creator is generally the first copyright owner.
☐ Employment, commissions and collaborations can change ownership.
4. Handshake Deals Can Get Messy
☐ Confirm ownership, payment, licensing and attribution in written agreements.
☐ Keep signed contracts and records of contributions.
5. Found Online Doesn’t Mean Free to Use
☐ Do not assume online content is free to use.
☐ Permission may be needed to reproduce, publish, adapt or share works.
6. Licensing = Permission With Rules
☐ A licence gives permission to use copyright without transferring ownership.
☐ Clearly define use, duration, territory and payment terms.
7. You Have a Right to Be Credited
☐ Creators generally have rights to attribution and integrity.
☐ Ask to be properly credited for your work.
8. Social Media Platforms Have Their Own Rules
☐ Posting work online may give platforms broad rights to use or display your content.
☐ Always review platform terms and conditions before uploading creative work.
9. Copyright Lasts Longer Than Most People Think
☐ Many works are protected for the creator’s life plus 70 years.
☐ Different rules apply to films, recordings and broadcasts.
10. Culture Requires Respect, Not Just Permission
☐ Consider community consent, attribution and cultural protocols.
☐ Any Indigenous Cultural and Intellectual Property permissions should be reflected in clear, written agreements
General information only — not legal advice.