2022 Australian Intellectual Property Report

View the IP Report 2022 in PDF Format

Welcome to the Australian IP Report 2022

Director general of IP Australia - Michael Schwager

I am pleased to introduce the 2022 Australian Intellectual Property (IP) Report.

Published annually, the IP Report presents the latest statistics on the use of registered IP rights in Australia and what that means in Australia’s global economic context.

The latest IP trends illustrate how Australians have adapted to the change in our social and work environment during COVID-19. Demand has surged in pharmaceuticals patent filings, given the need for novel vaccines and treatments, as well as computer and audiovisual technology, as the economy has moved to a virtual model. Trade mark and design filings have grown for products that households invest in when upgrading their homes to create comfortable living and workspaces. The report shows how IP data can provide real-time insight into changing economic conditions.

For Australia to sustain its positive economic momentum, it is vital that all Australians can realise their innovation potential. This year’s report presents evidence that IP activity is a significant forward indicator of employment growth for Australian small and medium enterprises (SMEs). The report highlights recent reforms to make the IP system more accessible for different users, and it finds that participation by SMEs in the IP system is increasing.

In 2022, the Australian IP Report is in its 10th edition. The report continues to provide a vital platform for discussing trends in the economy, the IP system’s role, and the value of encouraging innovation to Australia’s benefit.