Experts say AI copyright changes could breach Australian constitution and spark compensation claims

Experts warn that proposed changes to Australian copyright law that would let AI companies scrape music, books and journalism could breach the constitution and expose the country to large compensation claims. The Guardian reported that coalition senators and the recording industry have warned the move could open Australia to massive legal action and compensation claims from rights holders worldwide.

Australia’s attorney‑general’s department said it was “extremely alive” to the issue, acknowledging the growing concern. Constitutional scholar Anne Twomey told the outlet that, depending on how legislation is drafted, granting AI firms permission to scrape copyrighted material “could potentially amount to acquisition of property by the government.”

Twomey added that the risk hinges on the wording of any new law, suggesting that a poorly drafted amendment could trigger a constitutional breach. The combination of political, industry and legal scrutiny signals that any reform will face intense scrutiny before it proceeds.

Why it matters

A constitutional breach could lead to costly compensation claims, affecting both the Australian government and international rights holders.

Key details

Location

Australia · Oceania

Reported by

The Guardian

First reported

30 Oct 2026, 19:30 IST

Key names

AI, Australian, Anne Twomey, Altering

Section

Technology

Sources

This is an independent summary. Read the full, original reporting from the publisher:

• The GuardianExperts warn AI copyright changes could breach Australian constitution and spark huge compensation rights case 30 Oct, 19:30

Read the full story at The Guardian ↗

Spotted an error? Request a correction · How this summary was produced