Websites

It is a common misconception that material on the internet is copyright-free because it is readily and freely accessible. Websites are subject to copyright and can only be used as permitted under their terms of use or the Copyright Act.

It is recommended that you link to a web page or website rather than copying or downloading it, as there are no copyright restrictions that apply to linking to websites. However, you should not link to or use infringing material.

Many websites have terms and conditions that outline how material can be used. Unless you are required to login or agree to the terms and conditions before entering the websites, the terms are not legally binding and material from the website can be used as permitted under the Copyright Act. For more information, see using copyright material.

Some websites also licence material under open licensing schemes such as Creative Commons. Generally, this material can be freely used provided the conditions of the licence are fulfilled. See Creative Commons Australia.

You must properly acknowledge any website that you use.

Websites are not protected as a work under copyright. However, the elements within the website are protected under copyright:

Duration of copyright of works in websites will depend on the type of material. For more information, see duration of copyright

The creator of the content on a particular page or site will generally own copyright. For more information, see ownership of copyright.