Copyright (Infringing File Sharing) Amendment Bill introduced to Parliament

Published: 09.03.2010

On the 23rd of February 2010, the Copyright (Infringing File Sharing) Amendment Bill was introduced into Parliament.

The Bill implements the Government’s decision to put in place an effective and credible regime for the enforcement of copyright against illegal file sharers.

Internet account holders who are allegedly infringing copyright via file sharing will receive up to three notices from their internet service provider before a copyright owner may seek a compensation award at the Copyright Tribunal, or suspension of an internet account for up to six months in the District Court. The amount of an award may be up to $15,000.

The Bill has been drafted by the Parliamentary Counsel Office in conjunction with MED and the Ministry of Justice. The Bill will proceed to the Select Committee in the coming months. MED welcomes submissions from the public once the Bill reaches this stage. After the Bill has been enacted, regulations will be drafted to add further detail to the regime before it comes into force. MED expects this will occur before the end of the year.

A copy of the Bill can be found on the New Zealand legislation website.

A copy of the press release and frequently asked questions can be found on the Beehive website.