The Albanese Government is consulting on possible updates to Australia's copyright laws - while reiterating that this will not include a Text and Data Mining Exception.
Some in the technology sector called for the introduction of a broad Text and Data Mining Exception in Australian copyright law.
Under such a proposal, Artificial Intelligence (AI) developers would be able to use the works of Australian creators for free and without permission to train AI systems.
The Government stands behind Australia's creative industries and, by ruling out a Text and Data Mining Exception, is providing certainty to Australian creators.
While the Government is not considering a Text and Data Mining Exception, work is underway to ensure that Australia is prepared for future copyright challenges emerging from AI - so that Australian creators are protected and supported while unlocking new uses of copyright material.
The Government is convening our Copyright and AI Reference Group (CAIRG) over the next two days to discuss three priority areas:
- Encourage fair, legal avenues for using copyright material in AI
Examining whether a new paid collective licensing framework under the Copyright Act should be established for AI, or whether to maintain the status quo through a voluntary licensing framework.
- Improve certainty
Explore opportunities to clarify or update how copyright law applies to material generated through the use of AI.
- Avenues for less costly enforcement
Make it easier to enforce existing rights through a potential new small claims forum to efficiently address lower-value copyright infringement matters.
Artificial Intelligence is an exciting technological frontier full of opportunities, and we should be harnessing these opportunities for the benefit of local industries like our creative and media sectors, working with them, rather than at their expense.
The Government will continue to work with creators and technology companies on ways to unlock AI innovation which benefits everyone.
Comments attributable to Attorney-General, Hon Michelle Rowland MP:
"Artificial Intelligence presents significant opportunities for Australia and our economy, however it's important that Australian creatives benefit from these opportunities too.
"Australian creatives are not only world class, but they are also the lifeblood of Australian culture, and we must ensure the right legal protections are in place.
"This Government has repeatedly said that there are no plans to weaken copyright protections when it comes to AI.
"The tech industry and the creative sector must now come together and find sensible and workable solutions to support innovation while ensuring creators are compensated.
"The Government will support these next steps through the renewed focus tasked to the Copyright and AI reference group."
