Today the Federal Court has awarded the family of Schapelle Corby more than $50,000 in damages (in total) for infringement of copyright in photos that were published by Allen & Unwin in the book, Sins of the Father. It also ordered that all copies of the book in possession of the publisher be delivered up for destruction.

The Corby family said several of their family photos had been printed in the book without permission, although the publisher has reportedly alleged that the photos were supplied to the author (journalist Eamonn Duff), or to members of the media for publication.

The case is a good reminder of why it is important to confirm the source of all copyright material before it is published in order to ensure that it has been appropriately licensed for the particular use.

To view the Federal Court judgment click here.