Meet The Team: Arif Chowdhury, Licensing Officer
June 12, 2020
What do you do at the Copyright Agency?
I am working within the close-knit Education and Government Licensing team. As a Licensing Officer, I have a key administrative and support role. My daily activities include liaising closely with Licensees and external customers along with other internal teams. I support the implementation and administration of Copyright Licences within the University, Schools, TAFE and Government sectors along with all aspects of the Other Educational Providers’ licence scheme.
What is something people in the education sector have to deal with that you want to help fix?
I am passionate about helping people to navigate and gain a better understanding of the purpose and importance of copyright, and how it protects intellectual rights and the Australian creative community.
What is your background/past experience?
My background is in Music Publishing. I have over 25 years’ experience liaising with Australian and international artists, songwriters, music publishers and societies. Prior to joining the Copyright Agency, I worked with the Australian Classification board and spent most of my day watching movies and TV series! I have lived in several countries and speak 6 languages.
What are the values that drive you?
Building strong relationships and being of service. My favourite quote is: ‘Service to others is the rent you pay for your room here on earth’ (Muhammad Ali).
What do you like about working at the Copyright Agency?
I love working for a non-profit organisation that respects and promotes Australian arts and culture. The Copyright Agency has a creative, imaginative and innovative culture that enables both collaborative and independent work. Learning about copyright law and its applications has been a fascinating journey too.
The Copyright Agency supports the ‘This book/song changed my life’ campaign. What creative work changed your life?
Down Under, by Australian rock band Men at Work is one of my favourite songs.
What do you enjoy doing when you are not working?
Going on walks/adventures with my two dogs, a Border Collie and a Lab; cooking for my family and mastering new and interesting cuisines; fishing; and of course, reading and listening to music and podcasts!
To get in touch with Arif:
achowdhury@copyright.com.au
02 9394 7726