Patent Attorneys


Proposal for trans-Tasman Regulation of Patent Attorneys

We are working with the Ministry of Economic Development in New Zealand on a proposal to establish a single governance body responsible for patent attorney registration, training and disciplinary standards across Australia and New Zealand. This initiative is part of the Single Economic Market (SEM) outcomes framework, which aim to create a seamless trans-Tasman business environment.

The majority of Australian and New Zealand patent attorneys are registered in both countries. A single governance body will provide economies of scale, saving time money and effort for the profession as a whole.

Public feedback on the proposal

Public feedback has been sought on a discussion paper concerning a single trans-Taman regulatory framework for patent attorneys. Submissions on the discussion document closed in May 2011.

We are working with the Ministry of Economic Development in New Zealand to consider the submissions received and will be making recommendations to the Ministers for consideration, in due course.

The proposal for trans-Tasman regulation of patent attorneys discussion paper and submissions are available.

The discussion paper outlined the proposal to establish:

  • A single governance body for patent attorneys
  • Consistent qualification requirements for registration as a patent attorney
  • A single register of patent attorneys
  • A single disciplinary regime

More information

Last Updated: 27/10/2011