International Design Protection

Protecting the visual appearance of a product may be important when taking a business into overseas markets. Australian businesses can seek registered design protection in other countries, provided the relevant applications are filed within applicable priority deadlines.

Australian Patent & Trademark Services (APTS) assists businesses to develop and coordinate international design protection strategies, working with experienced overseas associates to obtain protection in selected jurisdictions.

International Registered Design Protection

Registered design protection is territorial. An Australian design registration does not automatically protect a product in overseas markets. Separate applications may be required in each country or region where protection is commercially important.

Where an Australian design application is filed first, overseas applications may generally claim priority from that initial filing if lodged within the applicable six-month Convention priority period. The relevant deadlines and filing requirements should be assessed before any public disclosure or commercial launch.

Our International Design Services

APTS can coordinate the overseas design application process, including:

• Reviewing product designs and identifying appropriate overseas protection options.
• Coordinating the preparation and filing of design applications with overseas associates.
• Managing Convention priority deadlines and international filing requirements.
• Coordinating examination responses and prosecution through local representatives where required.
• Monitoring registration, renewal and ongoing portfolio deadlines.
• Providing guidance on international design protection as part of a broader intellectual property strategy.

Developing an International Design Strategy

The appropriate filing strategy will depend on your product, commercial objectives and intended markets. Relevant considerations include:

• Countries where products will be manufactured, sold or distributed.
• Markets where competitors may copy or imitate the product’s appearance.
• The timing of product launches, exhibitions and other public disclosures.
• The scope of protection sought and the available budget.
• Whether a national filing strategy or an international filing mechanism, such as the Hague System where available, is appropriate.

APTS works with a network of overseas intellectual property associates to coordinate applications and local representation. We can help you assess the available options and develop a practical filing strategy that reflects your commercialisation plans.

International Design Protection – Professional Coordination

International design applications involve different national and regional requirements. Working with experienced local associates helps ensure that applications are prepared and managed in accordance with the relevant jurisdiction’s procedures.

Whether you are seeking protection in one overseas market or coordinating a broader international portfolio, APTS can assist with the strategy, filing coordination and ongoing management of your registered design rights.

Discuss Your International Design Requirements

If you are considering overseas design protection, we welcome the opportunity to discuss your product, intended markets and filing deadlines.

Contact APTS for an enquiry or quotation, or book a consultation to discuss your international design strategy.

Australian Patent & Trademark Services
Telephone: 1300 138 802