Free TV Australia has welcomed the passage of stronger laws to address online copyright piracy. Expanded site blocking legislation introduced by Minister Mitch Fifield and passed with support from the Opposition, Greens and cross bench senators will empower content creators to fight copyright infringement.
Free TV Australia CEO Bridget Fair said, “This legislation is a critical tool for content owners, including broadcasters, to protect their content against large-scale online piracy.
“Importantly, it acknowledges the role that online search engines play in facilitating access to pirated material. Content creators will now be able to seek orders to demote or remove search results for infringing sites.”
Free TV said broadcasters invest 6 out of every 10 dollars spent on Australian content production. They do this so that millions of Australians can watch great local content on commercial TV networks for free. Supporting measures that combat online piracy is critical to ensuring that this investment is not put at risk.
“We congratulate the Government for this important initiative which supports Australian creators to keep investing in great creative content.”
Minister for Communications and the Arts Fifield said the new laws will leave less room for harmful online pirates to sidestep Australia’s tough blocking measures.
“The Government has zero tolerance for online piracy. It is theft, and damaging to our creative economy and local creators. We are committed to protecting Australia’s creative industries and the world-class content we produce every year.
“The passage of our legislation today sends a strong message to online pirates that Australia does not tolerate online theft.”
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Top Photo: Free TV Australia CEO Bridget Fair