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.

As a member you will receive

  • Fortnightly e-bulletins reporting current news, trends and movements incopyright and picture research, events, training, resources and situations vacant
  • A special edition newsletter containing in-depth articles relating to intellectual property, copyright, photography and picture research and exclusive interviews
  • Access to the APACA website, designed by and for copyright and picture research professionals, containing topical information and valuable resources relevant to our industry
  • Access to our freelance register. Freelancers are encouraged to enter their details on our freelance register, which  is available to all APACA members searching for a freelance copyright & photo researcher
  • Education and training opportunities

What does it cost to become a member?

Annual APACA membership is $50 (for individuals) or corporate memberships $150 - $400 depending on the number of members.

How do I become a member?

If you're interested in becoming a member, we have an online membership form http://apaca.org.au/main/content/view/18/35/ 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
PO Box 33
Yarraville VIC 3013

Email: This e-mail address is being protected from spam bots, you need JavaScript enabled to view it

Our current committee

President: 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.
Email This e-mail address is being protected from spam bots, you need JavaScript enabled to view it  

Vice-president: Katy Murenu
Katy has spent the last 10 years working for image libraries and has recently enjoyed contracting roles for Lonely Planet as their Photo & Permissions Coordinator and as Image Researcher/ Cover Designer. She is passionate about photography.
Email This e-mail address is being protected from spam bots, you need JavaScript enabled to view it

Treasurer: Cara Gould
Cara is passionate about copyright issues and is currently on maternity leave from her position as 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.
Email This e-mail address is being protected from spam bots, you need JavaScript enabled to view it

Secretary: Vacant

Committee Member: 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 operating for the past 10 years.
Email This e-mail address is being protected from spam bots, you need JavaScript enabled to view it