Tim Winton wins Miles Franklin, and defends writers

Tim Winton accepted his fourth Miles Franklin award via pre-recorded video link at the awards presentation held at the NSW State Library on 18 June.

In his speech, Winton referred to “the long shadow of the productivity commission,” which is presently investigating reforms to Australia’s territorial copyright laws.

“For our writers, Aussie rights are the bedrock of fair play,” said Winton. “They’re the only hope we have of making a living here in our own country. But thanks to an agency of our own government, Aussie rights are now in grave jeopardy.”

Under the current 30-day rule, Australian publishers have the option to publish a book locally within 30 days of its international publication, or else booksellers can import foreign editions. In March the Productivity Commission’s draft report suggested that this restriction be limited to 12 months from the date of publication. The Productivity Commission’s final report is due at the end of June.

To watch the video of Winton’s acceptance speech, visit http://breath.timwinton.com.au/

To read CAL’s submission to the Productivity Commission regarding the Parallel Importation of Books, click here.

CAL's Cultural Fund sponsors the Miles Franklin regional touring program. Tim Winton will be travelling throughout regional Victoria in early July to meet with readers and discuss his work. For details, and to book your place, visit the touring program website.