You are required to apply for the grant of a patent if you intend to protect your rights to a new and original concept, idea or design you have created.
A patent is legally enforceable and gives the owner the exclusive right to commercially exploit the invention for the life of the patent.
In Australia, a standard patent gives long-term protection and control over an invention for up to 20 years. It is a requirement that as a patent applicant, you must provide the Agency with a full description of how your invention works. This information becomes public and can provide the basis for further research by others.
The Australian Government phased out innovative patents. Existing innovative patents that were filed on or before August 2021 will continue in force until their expiry.
