The Australian IP Report 2026, released today, shows businesses typically see sustained increases in productivity and income after receiving their first patent or trade mark.
Research shows on average, businesses that registered a trade mark saw a 16% increase in sales per worker, compared to equivalent businesses on similar growth paths without IP protection.
After a first patent grant, businesses experienced a 15% overall efficiency increase, pointing to deeper technological advances.
The research found that registering a trade mark was also associated with a major income boost, with average income 78% higher than similar firms.
IP Australia Acting Director General Margaret Tregurtha said the report shows how IP underpins productivity, innovation and growth.
“In an uncertain economic environment, an internationally aligned and well‑calibrated IP system helps give businesses the confidence to invest, innovate and scale,” Ms Tregurtha said.
2025 saw record levels of trade marks and design rights, driven by strong growth in filings by Australian residents, with growth softening over recent quarters.
IP Australia Chief Economist Dr Michael Falk said the report highlights the challenging environment for innovators and sources of resilience for the economy.
“In 2025 we saw a decline in international patent collaborations while domestic IP activity was strong,” Dr Falk said. “These trends point to global economic volatility and fragmenting innovation partnerships.”
Read the full Australian IP Report 2026.