On 15 June 2021, Australia and the United Kingdom announced an in-principle agreement to enter into a Free Trade Agreement (FTA). The FTA presents opportunities for businesses in both countries. Is it time to conduct an audit of your Intellectual Property Portfolio across Australia and the UK to take advantage of the FTA? Whilst the […]
Australia: Introduction of Patent Box Tax Concessions for Australian Medical and Biotechnology Innovations
In a boost for Australian-based medical and biotechnology innovators, the Australian Government has announced the introduction of a ‘Patent Box’ scheme in its Budget 2021-2022. Whilst the Government will consult with industry before finalising the details of the Patent Box, features are expected to address the following: (a) With effect from 1 July 2022, a […]
Additional Damages Awarded for Plant Breeder’s Rights (PBR) Infringement in Australia
On 24th February 2019, changes were made to the Australian Plant Breeder’s Rights Act 1994 (Cth) (the “Act”) including the introduction of additional damages for PBR infringement (see our article here). In a positive development for international and local owners of new plant varieties, additional damages have now been awarded by the Federal Court of […]
The City of Light – Paris – September 2019
Australia and France share a close historical bond, and conduct substantial bilateral trade and investment. In 2017-18, goods imported into Australia from France were valued at AU$5.1 billion, with Australia’s exports to France valued at AU$1.6 billion.[1] Given the current negotiations for the EU-Australia Free Trade Agreement, the exchange of goods and services between the two countries […]
2019 IP Update – New Zealand
As reported in our February update, changes to intellectual property laws in New Zealand will significantly benefit international and local brand owners. Key updates of the changes are outlined below. Please do not hesitate to contact us should you require assistance regarding your intellectual property portfolio in New Zealand in light of these changes. Patent […]
Australian Patent Case Law Snap Shot
Sequenom, Inc. v Ariosa Diagnostics, Inc. [2019] FCA 1011 (27 June 2019)[1] A recent Federal Court of Australia decision held that methods of medical diagnosis are clearly patentable subject matter in Australia. The Federal Court of Australia has taken the opposite position as compared to the corresponding litigation in the United States of America. [2] The main […]