$22.3 million in payments to Australian authors and publishers this year
26 June 2018
The Turnbull Government has announced $22.3 million in payments to Australian authors, illustrators and publishers through the Australian Government Lending Rights schemes in 2017-18.
The Public Lending Right and Educational Lending Right schemes compensate eligible Australian book creators and publishers for the loss of income through the free use of their books in Australian public libraries and educational libraries.
Minister for the Arts, Senator the Hon Mitch Fifield, said the Government will make 17,200 payments to creators and publishers through the schemes this year.
“These schemes provide Australian authors and publishers with the means to keep producing uniquely Australian stories to inspire current and future generations,” said Minister Fifield.
“These payments are one of the ways the Government supports Australian authors, illustrators and publishers to encourage the continued growth and development of Australian writing.”
Last year the new Lending Rights Online portal was launched to make it easier for publishers and authors to submit and track their claims online. Creators and publishers can register and submit title claims within five years from the year of publication and by 31 March each year to be eligible for payment.
For more information about the schemes and to register for Lending Rights Online visit: www.arts.gov.au/lendingrights
Authorised by Senator the Hon Mitch Fifield, Liberal Party of Australia, Parliament House, Canberra.