Consultation on Patent Manual update on computer-implemented inventions

IP Australia significantly updated its Patent Manual of Practice and Procedure on 16 March 2026, reflecting the Full Federal Court’s decision in Aristocrat Technologies Australia Pty Ltd v Commissioner of Patents [2025]FCAFC 131.  

Given the level of interest in this decision, we’re undertaking additional consultation to ensure transparency and enable stakeholders to provide feedback.  

Feedback received through the consultation will be considered, and where appropriate inform future changes. The amendments to the Manual clarify the Commissioner’s approach to examining computer-implemented inventions: 5.6.8.6 Computer Implemented Inventions, Mere Schemes, and Business Methods. 

Interested parties are invited to provide feedback by 17 May 2026 at the IP Australia Consultation Hub.