iiNet releases paper relating to policing copyright

Internet service provider iiNet has recently released a paper outlining a new framework for provision of online content and the policing of copyright.

Communications and broadband giant iiNet has recently released a paper that outlines a new framework for the provision of online content and the policing of copyright infringement. The move comes after the recent federal court case Roadshow Films Pty Ltd & Ors v iiNet Limited, with the aim being to encourage more productive discussion about legitimate online content being provided.

Michael Malone, the Chief Executive of iiNet, has said that it is important for copyright holders and the film industry to work with the industry to make their content more readily available on a legitimate basis. He also said that an industry body needed to be set up to deal with allegations of copyright infringement.

Speaking about the paper Malone stated:  “iiNet has never supported or encouraged breaches of the law, including infringement of the Copyright Act. This legal case has not stopped one illegal download, and we believe there is a much better way than that previously promoted by the studios.” He added: “People are crying out to access the studios materials, so much so some are prepared to steal it. A more effective approach would be for the studios to make their content more readily and cheaply available online.”

He went on to state: “iiNet has developed a model which addresses ISP concerns but one we think remains attractive to all participants, including the sustainable strategy of an impartial referee for the resolution of disputes and the issue of penalties for offenders.”

Source – iiNet