Indigenous Knowledge

We define Indigenous Knowledge (IK) as the traditional knowledge and traditional cultural expressions of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.

What is IK?

IK is a broad term that covers a range of knowledge held and continually developed by Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. Even though the word ‘traditional’ is often used to describe this concept, it's important to remember that IK continues to evolve.

If you want to learn more about IK, have a look at the video below and check out our video series.

What is Indigenous Knowledge?

Learn about Indigenous Knowledge and IP.

What do we mean when we talk about Indigenous Knowledge?

In Australia, Indigenous Knowledge is the traditional knowledge and cultural expressions of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people.

Traditional knowledge can be practices, skills, innovations and processes. This knowledge could be agricultural, scientific or technical. It could also include knowledge about animals and plants.

Indigenous Knowledge also includes traditional cultural expressions like language, stories, art, dance, and architecture.

Indigenous Knowledge can be part of your business in many ways. Along with its personal and community value, it can also be a valuable business asset.

Check out IP Australia’s Indigenous Knowledge Hub.

We use the above definition to cover knowledge that could form part of an IP right. Indigenous Cultural and Intellectual Property (ICIP) is another term that's sometimes used interchangeably with IK. They're similar concepts but ICIP can have a broader scope.

Can I use IK in my business?

Along with its personal and community value, IK can be a valuable asset and part of your business in many ways. If you want to work with IK, IP can offer some types of protection.

How IP can protect IK

How we're supporting the protection of IK

We regularly release publications, research and consultations on ways to improve the protection of IK in the IP system.

Check out our case studies for insights on how businesses are using the different elements of IP to commercialise their ideas.

For regular updates, join our mailing list.

Sign up for regular IK updates

Related content

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How to protect Indigenous Knowledge

If you're using Indigenous Knowledge (IK) to create something new and unique, IP rights can legally protect aspects of the IK and contribute to your product's value.

Trade marks Patents Design rights Plant breeders rights

Indigenous Knowledge initiatives

We're committed to providing an intellectual property (IP) system that helps promote and protect the knowledge of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. Here's what we're doing to support this.  

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Types of IP

There are four types of IP you can register through IP Australia.