A registered design protects what a product looks like. It is a monopoly that protects the overall unique appearance of a product - its shape, configuration, pattern and/or ornamentation.

In what is a competitive marketplace where design is often everything having a government granted monopoly to that design can be vital commercial advantage for a business.

A registered design protects what a product looks like. It is a monopoly that protects the overall unique appearance of a product - its shape, configuration, pattern and/or ornamentation. Granted by IP Australia it provides the owner with the exclusive right to that design in its product category in the marketplace for a 10 year term.

Obtaining a registered design adds value to your product and your business in the following ways:

benefit from the financial rewards resulting from the commercialisation of the registered patent which you have a monopoly
you can threaten and, if required, bring design infringement proceedings against an infringer stopping their conduct and recover damages or their profit
holding a registered design improves your bargaining position when negotiating with potential commercial partners, investors or licensees
a registered design acts as a valuable notice of your claimed rights to the invention, deterring would-be infringers - prevention is better than cure.
a registered design protects your investment of time and resources in the research and development of your product design. Without this type of government granted monopoly it is near impossible to prevent competitors copying the design of your product.

How We Can Help You

Led by Jennifer Driver, our design registration team have the technical experience, commercial nous and track record assist your business:

Australian and international design protection strategy & advice
design searches & advice
preparing and drafting design applications
design application filing in Australia & internationally
prosecuting design applications
design watch services
Australian and international design portfolio management including renewals
design infringement advice
design audits & due diligence
IP Australia design opposition proceedings
Assisting Actuate IP’s legal team in preparing commercial agreements, including licensing, related to commercialisation of registered designs
Assisting Actuate IP’s legal team in enforcing and defending registered design infringement proceedings