Copyright for staff
Find out who owns copyright, how to legally use third‑party content in your teaching materials and what you should consider when uploading to AI.
You might assume copyright law works differently in educational settings. That you're free to use any material you like when creating modules, slides, assessment tasks or videos. In fact, strict copyright rules apply to all teaching staff. Following them is not only a legal responsibility – it also helps you maintain the academic integrity of your course (and sets a good example for your students). The requirements aren't unique to Federation – they come from the Australian Copyright Act 1968.
Copyright and teaching
Find out how to legally use copyright‑protected material when you develop learning resources, deliver classes and use online platforms.
Copyright in different contexts
Don't forget your attributions
Who owns copyright?
Any material you create while you're employed at Federation (using University resources, funding, facilities or supervision) is owned by the University. However, you'll be granted a non-exclusive, royalty-free licence to use that material for teaching purposes. Read our Intellectual Property Procedure or the Australian Copyright Council's 'Ownership of Copyright' fact sheet for more info.
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Contact us
If you have any questions about copyright, please email copyright@federation.edu.au or call (03) 5327 9876.