IP protection
Registered intellectual property (IP) rights serve as an incentive to reward innovation by providing IP creators and owners with the time and opportunity to exploit their creation.
However, IP rights exist in many forms and in some cases they don't need to be registered in order to be of value. Each type of IP provides different competitive advantages for its owners and new commercialisation opportunities for organisations.
Types of protection
| What's protected |
Type of IP protection |
What it means |
Example |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Product designs |
Registered design |
The visual appearance of a product is protected, but not the way it works. |
Ipod |
|
Logos, words letters, numbers, colours, a phrase, sound, scent, shape, picture, aspect of packaging or branding - or any combination of these |
Trade mark |
A trade mark identifies the particular goods or services of a trader as distinct from those of other traders. |
Qantas® |
|
Inventions and new processes |
Patent |
A patent protects how an invention works or functions. |
Polymer bank notes |
|
Drawings, art, literature, music, film, broadcasts, computer programs |
Copyright |
The owner's original expression of ideas is protected, but not the ideas themselves. |
Typefaces and fonts |
|
Trade secrets and confidential information |
Other |
These types of IP rights give creators certain rights and privileges depending on the type of IP protection. |
Coca Cola has used trade secrets to keep its formula from becoming public for decades. |
|
New plant variety |
Plant Breeder's Rights |
Plant Breeder's rights protect the commercial rights of new plant varieties |
Cotton plants with insect resistance and the pink iceberg rose |
Key concepts of IP protection
Keep in mind these key concepts:
- IP has many of the same ownership rights as physical property.
- It is important that you effectively manage your IP to ensure you get the best protection and the most out of your idea/invention.
- The creator of IP is not necessarily the owner - it is important that ownership is addressed through appropriate contractual arrangements.
More information
There are steps you can take to understand the different types of IP protection available, and the best strategies for your circumstances.
For more information about how IP can work for you and business planning, download the New Business Owner's guide to IP.
For specific assistance and advice you can contact an IP professional.
Last Updated: 05/12/2012
