Professor McKeough to conduct ALRC copyright review

8 February 2012

University of Technology Sydney Dean of Law, Professor Jill McKeough will lead an Australian Law Reform Commission (ALRC) review into the operation of copyright in the digital environment.

“In our fast changing, technologically driven world, it’s important to ensure our copyright laws are keeping pace with change,” Attorney-General Nicola Roxon said.

“I’m delighted to announce the appointment of Professor McKeough to lead this inquiry and provide advice to government on the effectiveness of our copyright laws.

“Professor McKeough’s expertise in intellectual property, consumer protection and commercial law, make her eminently qualified to lead this in-depth review of the Copyright Act.

“The Gillard Government is determined to get the balance right between providing incentives for creators and innovators and encouraging new opportunities within a digital economy including via the National Broadband Network.

“The inquiry will consider whether the exceptions in the Federal Copyright Act are adequate and appropriate in the fast paced digital environment,” Ms Roxon said.

Draft terms of reference will be released for consultation shortly.

Media contact: Attorney-General's Office - (02) 6277 7300

Professor Jill McKeough

Professor McKeough was appointed Dean of the Faculty of Law at the University of Technology, Sydney (UTS) in 2005 and is also currently Chair of the Council of Australian Law Deans (2011).

This follows a long career at UNSW including a number of leadership positions: Head of School, Faculty of Law, Associate Dean (undergraduate) and Director of Postgraduate Programs. In 2004, Professor McKeough was elected as a member of UNSW University Council and served that role until taking up her role as Dean at UTS.

Professor McKeough is an experienced researcher, writer and conference presenter, who is widely published. She has written and taught primarily in intellectual property (copyright, designs, patents, trademarks, confidential information, biotechnology and indigenous cultural heritage) as well as torts, commercial law, legal systems and legal history.