DMCA Fight!

[I'm blogging this because it's important, even though all these facts are presented far more eloquently elsewhere]

So it looks like Australia is steam-rolling towards following the USA's mistake in implementing DMCA-like legislation - putting further control in the hands of big multinationals and taking it away from Australian consumers.

Fortunately Linux Australia and the OSIA, through the efforts of people like Rusty, are trying to make a difference now before we get bad legislation.

So what are we talking about?

DMCA is about using extensions to copyright to increase the control of big multinationals - from companies telling you what you can do with your legally purchased digital content, to stifling innovation and competition, and locking off the future of Australian high-tech industry. If you think I'm exaggerating, you should consider some facts on the topic, read this press release, and even listen to a podcast, if you are so inclined.

Then once you understand what's at stake, and if you feel that you should do something about it - download the petition, sign it yourself, get everyone you know (including your dog) to sign it, and then send it in to be collated and presented to our elected representatives, so that they know this is an imporant issue for all Australian consumers.

Act now before freedoms are lost.

| 13 Jun 2006 | #