Terms of Reference

1. The Australian Libraries Copyright Committee (ALCC) is the cross-sectoral body acting on behalf of Australian libraries and archives on copyright and related matters. It seeks to have the interests of users of libraries and archives recognised and reflected in copyright legislation, and in so doing, help build and sustain a copyright regime which promotes learning, culture and the free flow of information and ideas in the interests of all Australians.

2. The role of the ALCC is to provide an ongoing mechanism to:

a) Monitor proposed changes to Australian copyright legislation;

b) Make submissions to government and relevant agencies on copyright and related issues.

c) Provide regular information to the Australian library and archives community with regards to copyright issues and responsibilities (note: a members advisory service is provided by the Australian Library and Information Association).

d) Act as a steering committee for the Copyright Advisor (Law and Policy).

e) Interact with international organisations on copyright issues as appropriate.

f) Monitor international copyright legislation and developments.

3. The ALCC will comprise members from the following organisations:

  • Australian Society of Archivists
  • Australian Library and Information Association
  • Australian School Library Association
  • Council of Australian State Libraries
  • Council of Australian University Librarians
  • Council of Australasian Archives and Records Authorities
  • Federal Libraries Information Network
  • National Archives of Australia
  • National Library of Australia.

4. The ALCC may co-opt members representing specific interests or sectors at its discretion for a term to be determined at the time of co-option.

5. The ALCC shall normally meet once a year, more often as issues require.

6. Each organisation will meet its own costs in respect of participation at ALCC meetings and in other activities on the Committee.

7. The ALCC may vary its membership from time to time as it sees fit.

8. The costs of operational activities of the ALCC will be met from the copyright support function budget maintained on behalf of the ALCC through the National Library of Australia.

9. The ALCC may invite an appropriate person to chair the Committee who is not him or herself a sectoral representative, but rather takes an overview of copyright policy and the matters before the Committee. The Committee will normally appoint a Chair for a two year period. The Committee may also determine to what extent it will recommend funding support for the attendance of the Chairperson.

10. The Committee is supported by, and gives direction to the Copyright (Law and Policy) Advisor, who develops policy proposals, advocacy documents and information in consultation with the Committee.

11. The ALCC may vary these Terms of Reference at any time by a majority decision of the Committee.

 

Contact Details

Matt Dawes
Copyright Adviser
ph 02 6262 1273
fax 02 6273 2545

For answers to frequently asked questions relating to copyright and libraries, please contact the Australian Library & Information Association (ALIA)