Music copyright infringement: Twisted Sister says - We-re Not Gonna Take It

• Published date: 16 June 2021
• Law Firm: Stacks Law Firm
• Author: Ms Anneka Frayne

That song you copy and broadcast on social media, the music you use at a public function, or the anthem you use at a political rally can land you in big trouble with music copyright laws and cost you a hefty sum.

Clive Palmer sued for music copyright infringement

In 2019, Clive Palmer used the Twisted Sister 1984 hit We're Not Gonna Take It during his United Australia Party rallies and advertising. Mr Palmer thought if he used the same tune but changed the lyrics to Aussies Not Gonna Cop It, he would avoid having to clear copyright with the US heavy metal band. It wasn't so.

Universal Music sued Mr Palmer on behalf of the band. In April 2021 the Federal Court found Mr Palmer had infringed copyright and the millionaire political aspirant was ordered to pay $1.5 million, along with Universal Music's legal costs. (See Universal Music Publishing Pty Ltd v Palmer [2020] FCA 1472.)

Universal Music's conditions for using song

The court heard that Universal Music had told Mr Palmer they wanted $150,000 to use...