Protect the value of your ideas

Intellectual property (IP) rights protect your ideas. We administer IP rights for trade marks, patents, designs and plant breeder's rights.

UNDERSTANDING IP

Which IP right do you need?

Learn about the different types of IP you can protect.

Trade marks

Trade marks

If you want to distinguish your goods or services from other businesses', you may need a trade mark.
Patents

Patents

If you have an inventive device, substance, method or process, you may need a patent.
Design

Design rights

If you want to protect the unique appearance of a product, you may need a design right.
Plant breeder's rights

Plant breeder's rights (PBR)

If you have developed, or are developing a new plant variety, you may need a PBR.

IP SEARCH

Check if your idea's available

Before applying, search existing IP rights to make sure your idea is new.

Applying for rights overseas? Search the existing registrations in all relevant countries.

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MANAGING IP

Want to get the most out of your idea?

Once you've registered your IP, it's up to you to manage it and enforce your rights.

Understanding ip

Protect your Indigenous Knowledge

IP rights can legally protect aspects of Indigenous Knowledge and contribute to your product's value.
Indigenous dot painted artwork Indigenous dot paint artwork

News and community

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Design rights Amend Apply Enforce Renew

Have your say on the design rights system

13 June 2023 | 1 MIN READ

We want to hear from you. Here's how you can help us improve the Australian design rights system.

Small green leafed plant growing from laptop keyboard
Plant breeders rights

Introducing the new look PBR search

22 May 2023 | 2 MIN READ

We've refreshed the look and feel of the Australian plant breeder's right search.

Australian Intellectual Property Report 2023: IP for Australians

26 April 2023

Previewing new research from the Reserve Bank of Australia, this year’s IP report offers insights into how the changing economy impacts innovation, R&D spend, and new technology adoption.