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 benefits of joining?

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 is the annual fee to join?

Annual APACA membership is $50 for individuals or as follows for organisations:

3-5 members: $150

6-10 members: $300

Over 10 members: $400

How can I apply to join the Association?

To apply, please download and complete the relevant membership form.

Download membership application form (individual)

Download membership application form (organisations)

Applications can be submited by email This e-mail address is being protected from spam bots, you need JavaScript enabled to view it This e-mail address is being protected from spam bots, you need JavaScript enabled to view it This e-mail address is being protected from spam bots, you need JavaScript enabled to view it or by post:

Australian Picture and Copyright Association
PO Box 33
Yarraville VIC 3013

Feel free to email us at This e-mail address is being protected from spam bots, you need JavaScript enabled to view it This e-mail address is being protected from spam bots, you need JavaScript enabled to view it This e-mail address is being protected from spam bots, you need JavaScript enabled to view it should you require further information.

Our current committee

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.
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Vice-president: Cara Gould
Cara is passionate about the field of copyright. She is currently on maternity leave from her position as Copyright and Permissions Manager at Education Services Australia and over the past decade has held a number of roles in publishing, working for several Melbourne-based publishing houses.
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Treasurer: 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.
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Secretary: 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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