Introduction
In April 2022, IP Australia released their 10th edition of the Australian Intellectual Property Report[1] (the Report), and for those with an interest in the number of filings in the various categories of intellectual property (IP) which IP Australia administers, makes for interesting reading.
The Report is aimed at promoting awareness of IP rights and discussing the latest IP statistics. The Report notes a significant up-trend in pharmaceutical patent filings, which is perhaps unsurprising given the need for novel vaccines and treatments during the COVID-19 pandemic. Additionally, there have been significant increases in filings relating to computer and audiovisual technology, which reflects that Australians have adapted to the changes in our social and work environment over this period, and as the economy has moved to a virtual model. Additionally, trade mark and design filings have grown for products that households invest in when upgrading their homes to create comfortable living and workspaces. The Report also “presents evidence that IP activity is a significant forward indicator of employment growth for Australian small and medium enterprises (SMEs)”. Read more