Protect the value of your ideas

Intellectual property (IP) rights protect your ideas. We administer IP rights for trade marks, patents, designs and plant breeder's rights.

UNDERSTANDING IP

Which IP right do you need?

Learn about the different types of IP you can protect.

Trade marks

Trade marks

If you want to distinguish your goods or services from other businesses', you may need a trade mark.
Patents

Patents

If you have an inventive device, substance, method or process, you may need a patent.
Design

Design rights

If you want to protect the unique appearance of a product, you may need a design right.
Plant breeder's rights

Plant breeder's rights (PBR)

If you have developed, or are developing a new plant variety, you may need a PBR.

IP SEARCH

Check if your idea's available

Before applying, search existing IP rights to make sure your idea is new.

Applying for rights overseas? Search the existing registrations in all relevant countries.

Search BG

MANAGING IP

Want to get the most out of your idea?

Once you've registered your IP, it's up to you to manage it and enforce your rights.

Understanding ip

Protect your Indigenous Knowledge

IP rights can legally protect aspects of Indigenous Knowledge and contribute to your product's value.
Indigenous dot painted artwork Indigenous dot paint artwork

News and community

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Australian IP Report 2024
Corporate Design rights Patents Plant breeders rights Trade marks

Australian Intellectual Property Report 2024 is out now

21 May 2024 | 2 MIN READ

New IP Report reveals economic bright spot for Australia as domestic IP filings increase.

Puzzle piece that says trade mark and a hand holding a puzzle piece that says register
Trade marks Apply

TM Checker results are in – it’s a success!

30 April 2024 | 2 MIN READ

Our TM Checker tool successfully exits pilot, empowering small businesses with AI-driven trade mark assistance.

Two people, one male and one female, look at a computer screen with enthusiasm
Trade marks Apply

It’s live! A new, larger list of goods and services for trade marks

26 March 2024 | 1 MIN READ

IP Australia has replaced our list of goods and services for trade mark applications with the internationally recognised Madrid Goods and Services list.