Copyright Restrictions on the Parallel Importation of Books

Commissioned study

The Productivity Commission has been asked to report  by 30 June 2009 on the current provisions of the Copyright Act 1968 (the 'Copyright Act') that restrict the parallel importation of books, and provide advice on the potential for reform in the area.

The Commission will examine, and invites participants to comment on, a range of issues in regard to the parallel importation of books, including:

• the effectiveness of the parallel import provisions in achieving the objectives of the Copyright Act, having regard to the Government's overall policy framework
• whether the benefits to the community from the provisions outweigh any costs, including any restrictions on competition and the impacts on all relevant industry groups
• options for reform to the current provisions, and any transitional arrangements that should accompany any reform.

The Commission has released an issues paper, outlining some key matters to be addressed in the study and calling for public submissions.

Further information

• Media release announcing the study (external link)
• Correspondence relating to Commissioner assignment
• About the commissioned study process

Contacts

Jill Irvine (administrative matters)
Ph: (02) 6240 3223

Andrew Irwin (other matters)
Ph: (02) 6240 3350

Email: books@pc.gov.au
Fax: (02) 6240 3311

Freecall: 1800 020 083

Telephone Typewriter (TTY): 1800 803 344