Australian creatives warn against weakening copyright in exchange for AI datacentre billions
Australian artists and authors are demanding the government rule out any deal that would weaken copyright to attract over $50bn in datacentre investment in return for a $350m annual fund for creatives, as senator David Pocock calls it the 'ultimate dirty deal'.
Creative industries in Australia are raising alarm over a potential government deal with tech giants that would weaken copyright protections in exchange for massive investment in AI datacentres. An industry proposal reportedly before cabinet would grant AI companies exemptions to use copyrighted material for training their models. In return, the companies would fund a $350m-per-year artists' fund and invest over $50bn in new datacentres.
Independent senator David Pocock slammed the proposal as the 'ultimate dirty deal' and demanded the government categorically rule it out. The government insists it has no plans to weaken copyright, but creatives fear a backslide.
At a press conference in parliament house on Wednesday, musicians and authors urged the government to hold the line. Paul Dempsey, lead singer of Something for Kate, said: 'The idea that copyright law should be watered down to provide a handout to gigantic multinational companies to train their AI models makes no sense to me.'
Author Anna Funder described herself as a 'victim of crime', noting her books have been used without permission. 'My books that I've lived off for 30 years have been hoovered up by big tech, broken down for parts and used for them to make money,' she said.
Pocock revealed he had been told that Prime Minister Anthony Albanese is preparing to announce a plan on or around July 15, potentially including expedited approvals for datacentres. Albanese confirmed a major AI speech in July and met with Anthropic representatives last week.
Cabinet submissions are reportedly split: the Department of Industry, Science and Resources favours a lighter touch, while the Attorney-General's Department opposes exemptions. Former industry minister Ed Husic, who argued for AI guardrails, was removed from cabinet in 2025. His successor Tim Ayres is more industry-friendly.
The government rejected Pocock's claims as inaccurate but he insisted they were true. 'What cabinet is considering is the ultimate dirty deal – selling out Australian creatives for an eye-wateringly large investment in AI data centres,' he told parliament.
A spokesperson for Attorney-General Michelle Rowland reiterated the government has 'no plans to weaken copyright protections when it comes to AI' and is committed to a framework that supports both innovation and creators.
Musician Holly Rankin (Jack River) expressed willingness to negotiate: 'To the government we say, don't back down. To big tech we say, ask us, get permission, pay us. We are ready to do deals.'
Guardian Australia is among media outlets supporting the campaign to safeguard copyright.
