Trade Marks
Understand the Importance of brand protection for your business.
A business registration alone isn’t enough to stop someone using your brand. Read on to learn about the role and benefits of trade marks, including how they protect your brand identity and support your business growth.
What is a trade mark and why is it important?
Discover clear, concise answers to your most common questions about trade marks and their role in protecting your brand identity.
What can be registered as a trade mark in Australia?
You can register logos, names, slogans, sounds, and other distinctive signs that represent your brand.
How long does trade mark protection last?
Trade mark registration is valid initially for ten years. It can then be renewed indefinitely to maintain protection for as long as you keep using the brand.
How does registering a trade mark benefit my business?
Registering a trade mark safeguards your brand, giving you exclusive rights and legal protection against infringement. You likely already have a business registration, but this alone doesn’t provide the same rights as a trade mark registration.
Why is a trade mark registration important?
Registering a trade mark safeguards your brand, giving you exclusive rights to use the mark for your goods or services. It allows you to take legal action against anyone who copies or imitates your brand and provides a clear legal basis for enforcement.
Can I register a trade mark if someone else is already using it?
If the trade mark is too similar to an existing one, registration may be refused to prevent consumer confusion. This examination process is done by IP Australia, but we will guide you through every step of the process.
What are the steps needed to protect my brand?
If you are already using your brand, then filing a trade mark application is the next step. Securing a trade mark registration goes a long way to maintaining your business identity.
Where to start?
There are a few options for trade mark protection depending on the stage of your business.
Searching
If you have not started using your brand, it is best to start with a search to make sure you are not going to be stepping on any toes. Skipping this step risks a more costly re-brand later.
File a Trade Mark Application
Access the benefits and legal protections gained through trade mark registration by filing your application as early as possible. We will walk you through the various options, such as the appropriate classes and types of trade mark.
Trade Mark Enforcement
Whether or not you have a trade mark registration, it is up to you to enforce your rights effectively. If you discover someone else trading with a similar brand to you, we can take you through the available ways to secure your brand.
Start Protecting Your Brand Now
Discover how securing your trade mark can safeguard your business identity and unlock new opportunities. Learn more about our registration process and get expert guidance every step of the way.
