Design rights        

Understand how a design right can support your business' success, and how to apply for one.  

How to apply for a design right

A step-by-step guide to applying for a design right.

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    1. Decide if you have a design

    Decide if a design right is the right type of IP to protect your idea.

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    2. Search existing design rights

    Search existing design rights to make sure your idea is new and hasn't already been registered or published.

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    3. Understand costs and timings

    Make sure you understand how long it takes to register and certify a design right and the costs involved.

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    4. File your application

    Follow our step-by-step guide to prepare and submit an Australian design right application. Then, log on to our online services to apply.

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    5. See the outcome

    We'll assess your application and let you know the outcome. Successful applications are 'registered'. If there's an issue with your application, you may be able to resolve it with the appropriate response.

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    6. Certify your design (optional)

    Once your design right is successfully registered, you can choose to certify it. You can only legally enforce your design right if it is 'certified'.  

Ready to apply for a design right?

Log in to online services

Case studies

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Design rights

Modern design meets acoustic functionality

11 May 2021 | 2 MIN READ

Here's how an Australian design company reduced household noise with functional design and successfully commercialised its intellectual property in the process.

Trade marks Design rights

DesignByThem: IP and design

11 May 2021 | 4 MIN READ

Here's how DesignByThem use trade marks and design rights for their unique products.

Patents Design rights

Gecko Traxx: IP and accessibility

11 May 2021 | 2 MIN READ

Here's how a beach wheelchair became a commercial success thanks to its intellectual property strategy.