There is updated practical information on the .GOV website to help businesses make the most of their Intellectual Property (IP) when doing business in Australia.

IP Australia (IPA) is the body responsible to operating the patent, industrial design and trade mark system in Australia.

The Australian trade mark system is similar to the UK’s. Trade marks protect symbols, colours or other devices used to identify a business’ products or services. A trade mark is valid for 10 years, then may be renewed indefinitely for further 10-year periods.

To protect a trade mark in Australia you can:

1. File an application directly to IPA
2. Make an international trade mark application and select Australia as the designated country. More information on international trade marks can be found in the protecting your trade mark abroad page.

Read more about IP in Australia here.