We’re seeking feedback on potential technical and administrative legislative measures to help streamline and simplify Australia’s intellectual property (IP) system.
As part of a whole‑of‑government effort to identify measures that support productivity and economic growth, we’re looking at practical legislative changes to reduce unnecessary administrative and compliance burdens.
We have identified a range of proposals, designed to help businesses and individuals free up time and resources.
You’re invited to provide feedback on proposals outlined in the consultation paper, Streamlining and simplifying IP regulation, on the consultation hub.
Options under consideration include:
- expanding the definition of exclusive licensees in the Patents Act 1990
- introducing a grace period for the plant breeder’s rights (PBR) renewal fee
- repealing the herbarium deposit requirement for PBR applicants
- allowing the Registrar of Trade Marks to award opposition costs beyond the schedule
- empowering the Registrar of Trade Marks to correct ownership errors
- updating references to the Madrid System and Nice Agreement in Australia’s trade mark legislation.
While the proposals relate to different IP rights and the Trans-Tasman patent attorney regime, they are limited to specific administrative and technical matters rather than substantive changes to rights or policy settings.
To complete our quick survey and share your thoughts on any of the proposals, check out our consultation hub. The consultation is open until 2 April 2026.
We will use the feedback to inform our advice to government on the proposed options, and ensure we are ready to make appropriate changes, subject to government priorities and decisions.
Have your say at our consultation page.