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Australia to Vote on Extending IP Laws

Posted by timothy on from the dunebuggies-and-helicopters dept.

femto writes "This coming week, the Australian parliament will be voting on whether to introduce software patents, a version of the DMCA and extensions to copyright. This is all part of chapter 17 of the US-AU Free Trade Agreement. The effects of the DMCA act will be worse than in the U.S., as Australia has narrower fair use provisions than the U.S. It is not too late to urgently write to your Member of Parliament or Senators to oppose the legislation."

2 of 12 comments (clear)

  1. Rolling Downhill by mtrisk · · Score: 4, Insightful

    Things aren't looking good for those opposed to software patents, although I for one am not familiar with that many computer companies based Down Under. And the article reports this as "free trade legislation"? I suppose if the developed world would stop allowing software patents, software development wouldn't be migrating towards Asia.

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    Ok, that was a very disjointed post. But you know what I mean.

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    Without a proper flamewar, Anonymous was undecided on what shell to run.
  2. Fair Trade? by BrookHarty · · Score: 5, Insightful

    Could someone explain why Freetrade has to have extended copyright provisions for other countries? Other than pure poltical reasons to enforce US corporate values, I don't see the need for Australia to give in for American interests.

    This reminds me when President Bush went to Canada to protest the use of medical marijuana. It would increase drug use! Pure propaganda.

    I'm sure they are saying if they don't extend copyright issues, it will increase Piracy, also...

    Amazing, I bet Australia passes every law written by American corporate interests. For Free Trades Sake (wink, wink, nudge, nudge)