Media release
iiNet develops new framework for content provision
15 March 2011: Copyright owners should make their content more readily available online and an independent body should be established to manage allegations of copyright infringement, according to a paper released today by leading Internet Service Provider, iiNet.
In releasing the paper, iiNet Chief Executive, Michael Malone, repeated his call for the film industry and copyright holders to work with the industry to make their content legitimately available.
He said iiNet released the paper following the Federal Court case, Roadshow Films Pty Ltd & Ors v iiNet Limited, to encourage more productive public discussion about the provision of legitimate online content and propose a future model for policing copyright infringement.
"iiNet has never supported or encouraged breaches of the law, including infringement of the Copyright Act," Mr Malone said.
"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."
The paper, Encouraging Legitimate use of On-line Content, argues that while movie studios spend millions of dollars marketing and creating a demand for their products they do not make the content easily and readily available.
"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," Mr Malone said.
The paper points to recent evidence in the Federal Court case that showed one of the most effective ways to reduce piracy is to make the content legally available in a timely fashion, at an affordable price.
Recognising that regardless of the availability or timely, reasonably priced content, some individuals will continue to try to source content illegally, the iiNet paper has also outlined a detailed model to deal with infringement activity.
Mr Malone said the iiNet copyright infringement model would see an independent body responsible for verifying claims of copyright infringement and determining any penalty.
"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," he said.
In relation to penalties, the paper argues that the notion of simply disconnecting the Internet without independent oversight is not appropriate and disproportionate to the infringement.
It recommends an independent body impose penalties for infringements with a graduated scale of demerit points, fines, shaping or court action for serious repeat offenders.
Mr Malone said that while there is considerable discussion on the issue still to be had, iiNet believes the existing approaches are unworkable and unsatisfactory to many.
He called on the wider community including the government and others in the telecommunications industry to engage in the discussion, emphasising that the inclusion of an independent body deserves serious consideration and support.
"We believe that an independent umpire is the only way we can ensure natural justice and protect customer privacy, while allowing copyright owners their rights to pursue alleged infringers," Mr Malone concluded.
- ENDS -
For further information or interviews, please contact:
Anthony Fisk or Jane Humphries
08 9214 2210 or media@staff.iinet.net.au
Tim Grau, Springboard Australia
0438 044 598 or tim.grau@springboard.net.au
About iiNet
iiNet is Australia’s second largest DSL Internet Service Provider (ISP) and the leading challenger in the telecommunications market. We employ more than 2000 inquisitive staff across four countries and support over 1.3 million broadband, telephony and Internet Protocol TV (IPTV) services nationwide.
We’re a publicly listed company and we maintain our own super-fast broadband network. Our vision is to lead the market with products that harness the potential of the Internet and then differentiate with award-winning customer service.
To achieve this, we employ creative thinkers and true advocates of technology. Our people are a huge part of the iiNet success story, so we’ve developed a unique and stimulating work culture to ensure they remain engaged and inspired.
A lot has changed since our CEO founded iiNet in a suburban garage back in 1993 and the broadband landscape continues to evolve. What hasn’t changed is our passion for the transformative benefits of the Internet and our commitment to helping Australians connect better.