IP Aust fast tracks patents for green technology

Richard Marles, the parliamentary secretary for innovation and industry, said this initiative offers environmentally-beneficial inventions a way to reach consumers quickly.

“Climate change and its global impact is one of the biggest challenges of the 21st century and we know that technology and innovation play a key role in our ability to manage it effectively,” Marles said.

“Green innovation requires significant investment by industry and the Australian Government wants to give businesses all the support it can.

“This initiative will provide speedy access to Australia’s strong intellectual property system and help businesses protect their valuable assets.

“Patent applications can currently take more than a year to process, and innovators need to know that green technology can be fast-tracked to the front of the queue.

“Accelerating the examination process could reduce the waiting time for applications to between four and eight weeks.

“Furthermore, fast-tracking the application involves no additional fee,” Marles said.

IP Australia is the Federal Government agency responsible for granting intellectual property protection in patents, trade marks, design and plant breeders’ rights.

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