Advice for getting a fair go

Indigenous Art Code
Savannah Travia-Dann, IartC Artist Engagement and Administration Officer & Artist Member, with the ‘Fair Deal?’ poster. ©Indigenous Art Code. Photo: Cole Baxter.

For you to know what is fair you need to fully understand what’s on offer (the terms of the deal).

As well as understanding the terms of the deal, you have the right to access transparent information from dealers you are working with about who gets what percentage in the deal (a breakdown of the entire ‘money story’).

Other important things to remember are:

  • You have a right to negotiate
  • You have a right to ask for the deal in writing.
  • You have a right to access independent legal advice.


Saretta Fielding, Wonaruah artist and business owner discusses the challenges of putting a monetary value of her work:

“It’s been a journey for me to understand the value of what I bring in these cultural narratives and how they’re presented.

Saretta Fielding at work in her studio 2020. © Saretta Fielding/Copyright Agency, 2021. Photo: Raymond Kelly.

I’ve learned that we bring something quite unique and valuable, and that needs to be reflected in the pricing we are putting on our pieces.

This new market that we find ourselves in is opening many doors. I used to get frightened about the pricing I was asking. But I’m always positive and I always envisage a great outcome.”

Artists who are entering into new partnerships or negotiating the sale or licensing of their artwork can often feel confused or unsure of their rights. Unfortunately, it is not uncommon for artists to sign or enter into an agreement they do not fully understand.

By seeking independent legal advice, artists can ensure that they are treated fairly, that they maintain agency in the decision-making process and that they fully understand the terms and conditions by which their artwork is sold, used, or reproduced.

We encourage artists to resist (as hard as it may be) any pressure towards making a quick decision or signing an agreement without first having it independently reviewed. Ethical businesses will allow time and encourage artists to seek independent advice. Support services, including the Arts Law Centre of Australia, provide a highly skilled and valuable service for artists, with support for Indigenous artists at low or no cost. Artists can access template best practice agreements, have documents reviewed by a lawyer and receive other legal advice and support.

The Indigenous Art Code want to see artists treated and paid fairly, your art valued, and your Indigenous Cultural and Intellectual Property Rights respected. We encourage you to have confidence in the value of your work and work with people that value your art and respect your culture. Remember you can always reach out to the Indigenous Art Code for information or support.


Are you an artist who needs support? Contact us for general assistance and inquiries, and for referrals to legal and licensing support services.

IartC promotional poster, featuring artwork by Kalkadoon woman Bree Buttenshaw aka Little Butten. ©Bree Buttenshaw/Indigenous Art Code, 2022.
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Acknowledgement of Country

Indigenous Art Code acknowledges the Traditional Owners and custodians of Country throughout Australia and recognises their continuing connection to the land, waters and skies, often expressed through art. We pay our respects to artists, Elders and community members past, present and future.

Acknowledgement of Country

Indigenous Art Code acknowledges the Traditional Owners and custodians of Country throughout Australia and recognises their continuing connection to the land, waters and skies, often expressed through art. We pay our respects to artists, Elders and community members past, present and future.

Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people viewing this site should be aware that it may contain images, voices, artworks and names of people who have passed away.