[Dixielandjazz] European Copyright Law Change

[Jack Mitchell]

Australia signed a FREE TRADE AGREEMENT with the United States which came 
into force on January 1, 2005. What it had to do with free trade I have no 
idea, but the Americans insisted that the Australian copyright on sound 
recordings be extended from 50 to 70 years. This of course benefits the 
major American sound and film producing companies much more than any 
Australian companies.

Even worse is the copyright period for musical compositions which extends 
for 70 years AFTER the composer's death. Once again the benefits flow to the 
music publishing companies. Irving Berlin composed Alexander's Ragtime Band 
about 1912 - although it is out of copyright in America, it will be under 
copyright in Australia until 2060, as Berlin didn't die until 1989.

It's often said that we get the politicians we deserve. I don't believe 
that.

Best wishes
Jack Mitchell