Copyright law and policy adviser and advocate

Description

The Australian Digital Alliance (ADA) and Australian Libraries Copyright Committee (ALCC) are seeking a full-time copyright adviser to contribute to copyright and access to information developments in Australia and overseas, and participate in a range of copyright advocacy efforts.

The ADA is a non-profit coalition of public and private sector interests formed to promote balanced copyright law and provide an effective voice for a public interest perspective in the copyright debate. ADA members include internet intermediaries, universities, schools, consumer groups, galleries, museums, IT companies, scientific and other research organisations, libraries and individuals. The ALCC is the main consultative body and policy forum for the discussion of copyright issues affecting Australian libraries and archives.

This is a unique and fast-paced role, with a diversity of opportunities available to the Copyright Adviser. Responsibilities include the development and communication of advocacy positions and policy submissions on a range of copyright issues, legal research and analysis, some public speaking, social media engagement, administration, and management of communications and relationships with members and external stakeholders. The copyright adviser also delivers workshops on copyright issues for the library and archive sector. Direct engagement and lobbying of government departments, parliamentarians and stakeholders on copyright advocacy are core requirements of this position. Participation in forums, conferences and discussions on copyright and related issues is also encouraged.

It’s an exciting time to be in copyright law and policy, as governments worldwide consider how best to update copyright laws for the internet age. This is an opportunity for an enthusiastic, self-motivated candidate to further develop expertise in digital copyright and access to information issues, and establish relationships with a range of stakeholders in Australia and overseas.

Current priorities for the ADA and ALCC include the Australian Law Reform Commission Inquiry into Copyright Law & the Digital Economy, Trans-Pacific Partnership Agreement negotiations, and advocacy for flexible copyright laws in relation to digital access to and preservation of content.

This is a full time position is located in Canberra at the National Library of Australia. However, there may be opportunities for part time work. We will keep applications on file for 12 months for future opportunities. The initial term is 2 years, with an immediate start.

Applicants are required to hold Australian citizenship or permanent residency.

Closing date for applications: Friday 3 May 2013. Interviews will be held on Monday 13 May 2013.

Specific duties:

Researching issues, writing papers, submissions and web based material involving the relationship between copyright law and information regulation, access to content and education and technological innovation on behalf of ADA and ALCC members;
Liaising with the staff of appropriate Ministers and government departments, in particular the Department of Foreign Affairs & Trade, the Department of Broadband, Communications and the Digital Economy and the Attorney General’s Department, on issues relating to information regulation and copyright;
Monitoring of proposed changes to Commonwealth copyright legislation, and any other relevant legislation and regulation, and providing regular updates to the membership of both organisations on such changes;
Coordinating and supporting Committee and Board meetings, public forums and stakeholder consultations;
Development and implementation of media and publicity activities relating to copyright issues, including advocacy and presentations at conferences, workshops and before policy makers;
Delivery of copyright workshops and presentations to libraries and archives around Australia;
Liaison with allied national and international interests;
General management of the affairs of the ADA and ALCC;
Provision of support to the respective organisations is on a 50/50 proportional basis.

Selection criteria:

A completed Law degree;
Demonstrated understanding of, and capacity to develop expertise in copyright law and information regulation policy within the information economy;
The ability to research, synthesise and write;
Strong and confident communication skills, not only for written work as listed above, but also in discussion, advocacy, and presentation;
A demonstrated interest in the issues affecting copyright law advice and reform.
A high level of computer literacy;
The capacity to work autonomously, and to develop systematic communication. This is important in maintaining information flows for the two organisations, and supporting their administrative operations with the chairs of the ADA and the ALCC, who are not based in Canberra;
Willingness to travel.
How to apply:

Email to info@digital.org.au
CV – including contact details for two references
Letter addressing the selection criteria