From the moment you create an original work in certain forms, you have automatic ownership rights that are enforceable by Australian law. Copyright is used to protect a range of different works including original art, music, visual images and literary works. Copyright provides the owner of a work with exclusive rights to do certain acts with that work; e.g. reproduce, publish, broadcast, sell, licence and adapt the work. Anyone else who wishes to use the work must have the owner’s permission.
Our copyright lawyers are experts when it comes to recognising ownership rights and advising clients on their protection options. We act for a diverse range of creators and are highly experienced in advising on how to manage their copyrighted works. We ensure our clients are made fully aware of their rights and options when it comes to negotiating contracts involving copyright works and the transfer of ownership and licensing of rights and allow them to make informed decisions about the value of what they have created. Our copyright lawyers understand the significant time, effort and skill required to create an original work and are extremely committed to ensuring our client’s assets are adequately protected.
At Sanicki Lawyers, we’re solid believers in the fact that intellectual property law doesn’t have to be stressful. If you have a legal question or concern surrounding IP, trade marks, copyrights or design, don’t hesitate to get in touch with us today. One of our friendly and professional team members can arrange a consultation with you, where we’ll be happy to answer any queries in straightforward language and help you to identify, protect or enforce your intellectual property assets. Get in touch today and see for yourself why we’re considered one of the leading IP law firms in Melbourne.
Mary is a Senior Associate practising in Music Law, Entertainment Law, Intellectual Property, and Business and Commercial Law. She joined Sanicki Lawyers in 2025 and has extensive experience advising clients across the music and entertainment sectors, bringing a rare combination of legal expertise and first-hand industry experience to her practice.Â
Mary began her career in the music industry at Warner Music Australia, working in copyright, royalties, and licensing, before relocating to London to specialise in film, television, and games synchronisation licensing at Universal Music Publishing UK. Upon returning to Australia, she worked at Mushroom Music Publishing before completing a Bachelor of Laws (First Class Honours) and entering private practice.
Mary represents artists, songwriters, managers, producers, screen composers, filmmakers and other businesses, and has regularly worked on matters including:
publishing, recording and distribution agreements
music catalogue sale transactions
commercial contract negotiation in the creative industries
Passionate about artist remuneration and the protection of creator’s rights, Mary has published work on the 1% radio cap and, in 2024, appeared before a Senate Committee Hearing advocating for its removal from the Copyright Act. A self-confessed music copyright nerd, she has experience advising on local collection societies such as APRA AMCOS and PPCA, as well as international royalty collection options. She enjoys helping clients understand these frameworks so they can maximise remuneration for their work globally.
Known for her down-to-earth and collaborative approach, Mary combines attention to detail with practical problem-solving and long-term strategic thinking to achieve meaningful outcomes for her clients. Outside of work, she loves bringing her teenage daughter along to gigs and sharing the joy of live music.
Mary is a member of the Arts Law Centre of Australia.
Natasha’s journey with Sanicki Lawyers began in February 2025 as a paralegal intern. She was kept on as a law graduate prior to her admission in May 2025, and now practises as a junior solicitor in Entertainment Law and Commercial Litigation. With a background in film and media, she believes deeply in the power of the arts to shape hearts, minds, and policy – and is driven by a passion for using the law to support the creative industries and spark positive social change.
Natasha holds a Bachelor of Arts from the University of Melbourne, where she double majored in Media & Communications and Screen & Cultural Studies, followed by a Juris Doctor from Melbourne Law School, and a Graduate Diploma of Legal Practice from Leo Cussen. Her career journey has woven through corporate boardrooms (Ashurst; Deloitte), creative spaces (Red Bull Aston Martin Racing; impact film company Moonshine Agency), and a plethora of customer service roles; and she couldn’t be more thrilled to now be working with the wonderful Sanicki Lawyers team. Outside of work, Tash is a devoted film buff, live music enthusiast, passionate stress baker, and diehard football (soccer!) fan.
Including protection and licensing and clearances including: new media and digital formats, music, art, design and literary works.
The rights of designers in the digital media industry, including: graphic, web and app designers.
Including book publishing agreements.
Protection and registration of industrial designs.
Dispute resolution and injunctive relief.
