Understanding Creative Commons Licences
Creative Commons (CC) licences simplify the sharing of your copyrighted work while protecting your rights. These six flexible licences empower others to copy, distribute, and use your work, as long as they credit you and adhere to the conditions you set.
Creative Commons licences are widely adopted, with hundreds of millions of works available under them. Users include prestigious organizations like the White House and the New Zealand Government. For local examples, explore our case studies, which highlight New Zealand-based licence users and projects tailored to specific interests.
The Three Layers of a Creative Commons Licence
Each CC licence consists of three interconnected layers:
- Commons Deed: A plain-language summary of the licence, complemented by recognizable icons. This layer ensures accessibility, helping people quickly understand what they can do with your work.
- Legal Code: The detailed, legally binding terms of the licence, designed for legal professionals.
- Digital Code: A machine-readable version of the licence that enables search engines and digital tools to identify and categorize your work for easier discovery.
Versions and Localization of Creative Commons Licences
Creative Commons licences are periodically updated to reflect legal and technological advancements. The most current version is the 4.0 International licence.
To ensure compatibility with local laws, many countries, including New Zealand, have adapted or “ported” the licences. We recommend New Zealanders use either the 4.0 International licences or the 3.0 New Zealand licences, developed by Creative Commons Aotearoa New Zealand. Both versions are internationally valid and legally robust.
Creative Commons and New Zealand Government Agencies
For government agencies, the New Zealand Government Open Access and Licensing (NZGOAL) Framework Version 2 endorses the use of the 4.0 International licences. However, there is no requirement to retrospectively update materials licensed under the 3.0 New Zealand licences. For a detailed comparison of these licences, refer to NZGOAL Guidance Note 5.
Creative Commons provides a versatile framework for sharing knowledge and creativity while respecting copyright. This applies to whether you’re a creator, license user, or part of an organization. Explore our resources to learn more about how these licences can benefit you.