Explore the intersection of public law and intellectual property in this 1-hour 19-minute lecture delivered by Chief Justice Robert French AC as part of the 2012 Francis Gurry Lecture series at the University of Melbourne. Delve into topics such as the instrumental approach to intellectual property, complexity in the field, public interests, and the concept of intellectual commons. Examine the impact of antipiracy messages and their moral clarity, as well as the relationship between statutory interpretation and public policy. Investigate issues surrounding the interaction between purpose and interpretation, the question of inventive step, and the role of power in intellectual property law. Gain insights into specific cases like Sony Computer Entertainment and Union Label, while also exploring the significance of footnotes and the External Affairs Power in shaping intellectual property legislation.