23 July 2025
If you’ve ever created something original — a design, a song, a video, an artwork, even a piece of social media content — you already have something worth protecting. That’s where copyright comes in.
The good news? In Australia, you already own the copyright as soon as you create your work. No forms, no registration, no fees.
What Is Copyright?
Copyright is a legal right that protects your original creative work — whether it’s written, recorded, drawn, filmed or programmed. As soon as you turn an idea into a tangible form, you own the copyright.
You Don’t Need to Register Copyright in Australia
Unlike in the US, there’s no copyright registration system in Australia. Once you create something original — and it’s saved, recorded, published, or otherwise “fixed” — it’s automatically protected under Australian law.
This means your artwork, music, video content, blog post, software, and even business logo (if it’s original) are all protected the moment you make them.
So What Does Copyright Give You?
Copyright gives you the exclusive right to use, share, sell, or license your work. No one else can legally copy, publish, or modify it without your permission.
Some examples of what’s covered:
-
That logo you designed? Protected.
-
Your online video? Protected.
-
A song, drawing, podcast, blog post, or short story? All protected.
How Long Does Copyright Last?
Generally, for your lifetime plus 70 years. After that, the work enters the public domain, where anyone can use it freely.
Extra Protections You Might Not Know About
Moral Rights
In Australia, you also have moral rights, which means:
-
You have the right to be named as the creator
-
Others can't change your work in a way that damages your reputation
-
No one can falsely claim they created your work
These rights can’t be sold, but they can be waived (for example, in a contract).
The Copyright Symbol (©)
You’ve seen it before — ©. You don’t have to use it, but it’s a smart idea. It tells others your work is protected.
Example:
© 2024 Taylor Jones
Trademark Protection
If your logo, name, or brand design is part of your business, you might want to register it as a trademark. Copyright protects the creative expression, but a trademark protects your brand identity.
Design Registration
Created a unique shape or product look? You may be able to register it as a design. This is great for fashion, packaging, jewellery, or product creators.
What If Someone Steals Your Work?
If someone uses your work without permission, you have legal options — from takedown notices to compensation. But it’s often easier (and cheaper) to prevent misuse in the first place:
-
Add the copyright symbol and date
-
Watermark images or videos
-
Use contracts for collaborations and commissions
-
Keep records of when and how your work was created
Selling or Sharing Your Work
If you want to share or sell your work, you can do it through licensing agreements — like letting a company use your artwork on merchandise, or allowing a blog to publish your writing.
Always have a contract that outlines how your work can be used and what you’re being paid.
What About Global Protection?
Australia is part of several international copyright agreements, including the Berne Convention, which means your work is also protected in over 180 countries.
However, for trademarks and designs, you may need to register internationally through systems like WIPO.
Quick Recap:
-
Copyright is automatic in Australia — no need to register
-
It lasts your lifetime + 70 years
-
Use the © symbol to show it’s protected
-
It covers art, music, writing, video, digital content, software, and more
-
Contracts and agreements help you control how your work is used
-
International protection applies, but IP lawyers can help you go global
Final Word: Protect What You Create
Whether you’re a business owner, artist, designer, or content creator — your work has value. Knowing your rights helps you protect it, earn from it, and stop others from taking it.
If you need help protecting your creative work, understanding licensing, or registering trademarks or designs, speak with an IP professional. You’ve put effort into your work — make sure it’s protected.
