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2.10 Databases

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An electronic database is a large centralised collection of information in electronic form. The database may be accessed by computer via telephone, cable, satellite or broadband. A database may include new original material or pre existing material.

An electronic database is protected as a special type of literary work called a compilation. Compilations include timetables, rosters, catalogues, dictionaries, encyclopaedias, anthologies, directories, tables of factual information, lists, radio and television program guides.

The Copyright Act contains a number of free use exceptions and other matters which allow copyright material to be used without the permission of the copyright owner. The free use exceptions are relevant for educational institutions are set out below.

  1. Fair dealing 

    The copying of databases or work contained in databases for fair dealing purposes is free and does not require the permission of the copyright owner. The fair dealing exceptions most relevant for educational institutions and students are:

    • research or study
    • criticism or review.

    See 1.13: Copyright Exceptions for further information

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