A trade mark is any sign you use to distinguish your business’ goods and services from others. In this sense, a sign could be your business name, logo, colour, shape and sometimes a combination of these things. If you use a trade mark in the day-to-day operation of your business, you might consider registering your […]
When it comes to protecting your trade marks, using the appropriate trade mark symbol is important. By using the appropriate trade mark symbol, you are essentially notifying others that you are claiming your unique sign as a trade mark. However, many business owners are unaware of the potential issues that can arise if they misuse […]
A trade mark is an important intellectual property (IP) asset. A trade mark distinguishes your goods and services from your competitors. This allows you to grow your brand and expand your business. Applying for trade mark registration with IP Australia is an important consideration for Australian businesses. However, as more businesses expand their offerings overseas, […]
Whether you are an Instagram influencer or using Instagram as a marketing platform for your business, you might be wondering how you can protect your name. To help protect your brand and have it stand out, you should consider registering a trade mark. This article will guide you through the four key steps to register […]
There is a very fine line between popularity and market dominance, with the latter often having negative consequences in the trade mark domain. Over time, a brand might become so famous that it becomes a household name. While seemingly good for business, this has led to companies losing their trade mark registration through trade mark […]
Whether you own a registered trade mark or use a trade mark under a licensing agreement, there are a few ways you can breach trade mark law. Notably, the Trade Marks Act grants the owners of registered trade marks the exclusive right to use and authorise the use of their trade mark. If you infringe […]
A trade mark registration is one type of intellectual property (IP) protection that gives you exclusive rights to the use and commercialisation of your trade mark. A trade mark can help distinguish your brand from your competitors, even in international markets. If you are considering registering your trade mark, you might be wondering exactly where the […]
With branding being linked to reputation and popularity, your brand is ultimately the key to success for many businesses. However, having a unique brand name does more than just help you stand out from competitors. Having a unique brand name is a requirement if you wish to register a trade mark. This article will take you […]
Your trade mark application can lapse for several reasons. Namely, you may have failed to respond to an adverse report or pay the appropriate fees on time. In any event, a lapsed application means that your application is not valid. Therefore, IP Australia has not registered your application and entered it on the Trade Mark […]
When it comes to protecting Indigenous culture and traditional knowledge, Australian intellectual property law is far from perfect. Whilst registered trade marks can protect the brand features of Indigenous-owned businesses, several questions regarding ownership and consent to using sacred knowledge are bound to arise. Nevertheless, this article outlines: what Indigenous Cultural and Intellectual Property (‘ICIP’) […]