This week, Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese gave a speech in reply to the growing AI industry and its implications to the creative industry, and intellectual property rights, in Australia.
In his speech, Mr Albanese provided that creatives would still receive the utmost protection for their copyright works and warned that AI companies using copyright works for data mining and training purposes without consent or the appropriate licence would constitute “theft”. The Australian approach now seemingly mirrors the UK approach, with Mr Albanese also rejecting the prospect of AI companies being given free rein to use Australian copyright works without consent or the required licencing arrangements.
In light of this, Mr Albanese has announced a new round of law reform and new legislation altogether which aims to introduce stronger protection for copyright holders and would bind AI and tech companies into complying with certain obligations (though it is yet to be confirmed what this would entail). By the same token, the Australian AI and tech industry issued its own chorus of backlash in respect of the proposals for legislation, stating that legislating restrictions risks stifling development and growth of the Australian economy. Creatives have scrutinised the timeline for the introduction of new legislation, which is expected to begin its drafting phase early next year, with the reasoning that measures are required as soon as possible.
It would appear from Mr Albanese’s words that Australia is seeking to side with the long-standing creative industry and does not intend on encroaching on rights that have long stood for years prior to the AI boom. Whether the introduction of new legislation will prove to be a boon is yet to determined, though this will remain one to watch for rightsholders down under.
If you have any questions on the above, or if you need any advice or support in respect of your own Intellectual Property, please do not hesitate to contact the team at McDaniels Law on 0191 281 4000 or legal@mcdanielslaw.com.
