In this episode, patent examiners Samantha Saals and Lachlan Lo from IP Australia join host Lisa Cohen (Director of Public Education) to explain how patents can help protect inventions and support business growth.
Whether you're developing a new product, process or technology, you’ll learn what patents are, how they can give you a competitive edge, and how to determine whether patent protection is right for your business.
The episode also explores iconic Australian inventions – such as Wi-Fi, polymer banknotes and the cochlear implant – and the role patents played in their development and success.
In this episode, we explore:
- what patents are and how they work
- what makes an invention patentable
- the value of confidentiality and non-disclosure agreements (NDAs)
- the role and benefits of provisional patent applications
- checking novelty and understanding your protection options
- the benefits of an international type search
- costs, risks and considerations when applying for a patent
- understanding claims in patent applications
- things to do before applying for a patent.
For general enquiries, call 1300 651 010 or email outreach@ipaustralia.gov.au.
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This episode is available on YouTube, Spotify and Apple Podcasts.
Further reading:
- History of innovation in Australia
- Patent case studies
- International IP
- The Patent Cooperation Treaty
- Patent timeframes and fees
- Australian IP Report 2025
Tools to explore:
The content shared in this podcast is intended only to provide generalised information about intellectual property principles, and is not to be taken as legal, business or other professional advice. We do not accept legal responsibility regarding the accuracy and reliability of the information provided, and if you require guidance specific to your situation, you should consider seeking professional advice.