Helpful resources for ethical licensing and artist rights

The following organisations and tools support Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander artists and art centres in navigating fair licensing agreements, protecting cultural knowledge and working confidently with businesses.

Whether you’re looking for legal templates, ethical licensing support, or guidance on artist rights, these resources are designed to help you make informed decisions.

Indigenous Art Code
A national organisation that promotes fair and ethical trade with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander artists through a voluntary industry code of conduct.

Copyright Agency
A not-for-profit organisation that helps artists and art centres license their work and receive royalties when their art is used.

Arts Law Centre of Australia
Offers a wide range of legal templates and guides to help artists and art centres create fair, clear contracts for creative projects.

The Copyright Licence Toolkit for Art Centres
Contains model best practice copyright licences and policies that cover most uses organisations and individuals want to make of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander artworks.

Artwork Licensing Toolkit for Indigenous Art Centres (PDF)
A practical toolkit with model agreements and cultural protocols to help Indigenous art centres license artwork ethically and confidently.

---

Arts Law has a number of best practice copyright licences for art centres:

Art Centre Copyright Licence – Merchandise
A template agreement for art centres licensing artwork for use on merchandise they produce and sell.

Art Centre Copyright Licence – Fabric
A licensing agreement for artists who want to allow their artwork to be reproduced on printed fabric for commercial use.

Art Centre Copyright Licence – Fashion
A contract template for licensing artwork to be used in fashion items, ensuring artists retain rights and receive fair payment.

Copyright Licence – Manufacturing Agreement
A licensing agreement for artists or art centres working with manufacturers to produce products featuring their artwork.