Design examiners are often the first point of contact for many of the most ingenious innovations originating in Australia.
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Designs
A design refers to the features of shape, configuration, pattern or ornamentation which give a product a unique appearance, and must be new and distinctive.
Design basics
Find out what a design right is and gain an overview of the time and costs involved. Also learn about what designs can't be registered.
Registration and certification
A registered design helps give your business a competitive edge. Taking the next step to certify your design gives you the legal rights to defend it.
International designs
If you plan on marketing your product overseas, you will need to consider registering your Australian registered design to help protect your product.
Applying for a design
Below is an overview of the design application process.
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Decide if you have a design
Work out whether it is a design right that you need or if you need another IP right. -
Don't publicise your designs
It's hard not to tell others about something you are proud of, but you need to keep your design a secret if you want to legally protect it. -
Search for a design
Before applying, search for previous registered designs. This will help you work out whether your design is able to be registered. -
Prepare your drawings
Drawings and images are an important part of your design registration. -
File your application
Once you have determined that you design is new or distinctive, you can register it though online services. -
Next steps
Once you have filed your design there are a number of additional steps to take or consider.
Renewing and amending your design
Your design registration lasts for five years from the filing date of your application. You may choose to renew your design registration for a further five years. If you do not renew your registration, your design will cease.
Protecting your design
It is important to protect your design to gain the most benefit from your intellectual property (IP) asset.
Understanding the legislation
If your registered design is infringed, or you believe it is being infringed, you should consider requesting an examination immediately. You may also wish to seek legal advice.
Design initiatives
IP Australia is undertaking several initiatives to ensure the Australian designs system is fit for purpose and supports the Australian economy now and in the future.
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 Canberran Trish Smith sat on a plane waiting for take-off. |
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4 December 2019 IP Australia is conducting a review of Australia’s design ecosystem to better understand what drives visual design innovation and |
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3 December 2019 On 2 December 2019, IP Australia hosted a Designs Forum in collaboration with the University of Sydney. |