Media Statement

September 23, 2008

DINZ Welcomes Amendment To Copyright Act

The Designers Institute of New Zealand (DINZ) says it is delighted with the Government’s decision to introduce to Parliament an amendment to the Copyright Act which would repeal the commissioning rule.  

The amendment of the commissioning rule would ensure stronger rights to copyright ownership for people in creative industries, such as photographers, artists and designers.

Cathy Veninga, Chief Executive Officer of the Designers Institute of New Zealand said the”law change was necessary to recognise the reality of day-to-day design practice. “

“This proposed legislation will provide New Zealand designers with a basic level of copyright protection already enjoyed by our overseas counterparts.”

“DINZ, as with other organisations we are aligned with, appreciates how important this law change is for the creative industries. We are pleased that Parliament has recognised the validity of the submissions made by DINZ on behalf of designers and the wider creative industry in New Zealand .”

ends