Canberra Loosens Hold Over IP Rights

by Mary Swire, for LawAndTax-News.com, Hong Kong

07 May 2010

The Australian Information Industry Association (AIIA) has welcomed the federal government’s decision to establish a default position in favour of information technology suppliers owning the intellectual property for software developed under contract with federal agencies.

The change comes following a decision by the Attorney General and after negotiations between the industry and state and federal authorities. It will come into effect from October 1, 2010. However, it is believed that the government has won the right not to include the terms in new contracts in certain sensitive areas of government such as military and security.

“This is a very strong outcome for the ICT industry, particularly SMEs, and one that AIIA has worked hard to secure for many years,” said Ian Birks, chief executive of the AIIA.

“When a software company retains ownership of IP, it encourages the commercialization of IP across the ICT sector and fosters a competitive culture of innovation. This outcome will provide immediate and long-term returns to both government and the ICT industry,” he added

“The Attorney-General’s department is to be congratulated for their understanding of these issues and the decision they have reached. We believe that this outcome will serve the interests of both Government and the industry very strongly into the future,” said Birks.

Recommended