Ambit of teaching freedom within Australia's current copyright regime

Are you worried about using movies, music, books, articles and more in your lessons? You are not alone. This article navigates the intricate realm of copyright issues surrounding educational materials. And explores the legal boundaries teachers face in utilising such materials in their teaching. It explores the grey area of fair use and fair dealing and how it stifles creativity in the classroom. Amidst the anxiety-inducing ambiguity of copyright infringement, the narrative underscores how this uncertainty disrupts the learning environment. Evaluating the underlying principles of copyright and its relevance in education, the article scrutinises statutory provisions across various jurisdictions, including Australia, the US, the UK, Canada, and India. It argues against the current trend of constraining teachers’ freedom within the framework of copyright protectionism and advocates for a more balanced approach. Ultimately, it proposes legislative reforms aimed at alleviating the burden on teachers and fostering a more conducive educational landscape.