Australia’s Attorney General has clarified the country’s new copyright reforms, informing citizens that everyday activities such as owning an iPod and singing “Happy Birthday” are still legal.
“The controversial Copyright Amendment Bill 2006, which, as of yesterday, passed through both houses of Parliament, will become law by January 1,” reports the Sydney Morning Herald.
“Before it passed through the Senate, the bill underwent significant modifications, following immense criticism by industry bodies, the media and the public… The FAQ clarified that it would be perfectly legal to sing Happy Birthday in a public place, record television or radio programs for viewing at a later date, and copy legitimately purchased music to an external medium such as an iPod or a CD.”
.
