About us

The Australian Picture and Copyright Association (APACA) is a professional organisation for those working in picture research and copyright clearance.

Mission Statement

To build, promote and sustain a community of professionals working in picture research and copyright clearance within Australia.

Who can join?

Anyone who is involved in picture research and copyright clearance within Australia is welcome to join. This could include those working in publishing and other areas of the media, museums, libraries, universities, advertising agencies, and freelancers.

What are the advantages of being a member?

  • Quarterly newsletters (and all back issues archived on the site)
  • Freelance registrar
  • News about what's going on in related industries, recent trends and company moves
  • Education and training
  • Job vacancies
  • Network at APACA meetings and social events

What does it cost to become a member?

Annual APACA membership is $50 (for individuals)
Corporate membership is also available.

How do I become a member?

If you're interested in becoming a member, we have an online membership form LINK TO FORM which you can email to This e-mail address is being protected from spam bots, you need JavaScript enabled to view it

Applications need to be approved at our next monthly meeting and if accepted the applicant will be contacted regarding payment of membership fees.

Contact Us

Australian Picture and Copyright Association
54 Walsh Street
West Melbourne 3003

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Our current committee

President: Karen Forsythe
Karen is owner and manager of Copper Leife, a picture research and copyright clearance business, and has published a book together with her partner Craig. Copper Leife has been running very successfully for the past 8 years.
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Vice President: Gillian Cardinal
Gillian has worked in both picture research and permissions clearance in the publishing industry for 21 years and has a wealth of experience to share.
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Secretary: Michelle Cottrill
Michelle has worked in both picture research and permission clearance for over 6 years. She also has a keen interest in photography.
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Treasurer: Cara Gould
Cara is passionate about copyright issues and is currently Copyright and Permissions Manager at Curriculum Corporation. Over the past decade Cara has held a number of roles in publishing, working in picture research and author contracts for several Melbourne-based publishing houses. She is also partner in a boutique literary agency, Empire Publishing.
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Committee Member: Sarah Johnson
Sarah runs her own freelance picture research and copyright clearance company, Jonas Images, and was previously Photo & Permissions Manager at Macmillan Education Australia. She has several years experience in photo research and copyright clearance.
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