A patent protects any device, substance, method or process that is new, inventive and useful. It does not protect artistic creations, mathematical models, plans, schemes or mental processes.

A patent is legally enforceable and gives you exclusive rights to your invention for the life of the patent.

A standard patent provides long term protection and control for up to 20 years from the day you lodge your application.

Benefits of a patent

A patent:

  • gives you the right to stop others from manufacturing, using or selling your invention in Australia without your permission
  • let’s you license someone else to manufacture your invention on agreed terms or take legal action against people who are using your invention without your permission.

Learn more about patents and how they are granted.

IP Australia

Engaging an attorney to help you

An attorney can help you choose the right patent and can increase your chance of successfully being granted a patent.

Check out the Engaging an attorney toolkit for the how, why, what and when to engage a patent attorney.

IP Australia

Was this page helpful?

Thanks for sharing your feedback with us.

Why not?

This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.