Intellectual property (IP) is a valuable business asset, encompassing your branding, product designs and inventions. Protecting your IP helps you stay competitive, avoid disputes and control how your ideas are used. But many business owners aren’t sure what to do if they think their IP has been infringed.
To help, IP Australia has created IP First Response - a new interactive tool that brings together information on different ways to enforce and protect your IP. Whether you’re facing an infringement, been accused of one or just want to understand your options, this tool is a great first step.
Why IP First Response matters for small and family businesses
When infringements or disputes arise, it’s useful to know your enforcement options early. IP First Response helps by clearly outlining:
- Common enforcement pathways: Explore different processes that might apply to your situation, including cost effective options alternative resolution pathways, negotiations or legal avenues.
- Key considerations: Examine an overview of the potential benefits, risks, and general outcomes of different approaches to see which options may align with your business goals and resources.
- Practical support: Find where to get expert advice or professional help if you need it.
A tool to support your business
IP First Response supports the business.gov.au goal of offering Australian businesses accessible, practical information. While it provides detailed guidance to help you understand the range of available options, it does not replace professional or legal advice for more complex issues. Instead, it serves as a starting point for exploring possible avenues, making it easier to speak with qualified advisers or legal professionals if you need further assistance.
Help improve the tool
IP Australia welcomes user feedback to refine the tool and improve its usefulness for businesses and professionals. By sharing your experiences, you can help shape IP First Response into a more relevant resource for Australia’s business community.
Visit IP First Response on the IP Australia website to learn more about how it can help you safeguard your valuable IP assets.
