Benefitting from innovative IP service opportunities

Parliamentary Secretary for Innovation and Industry, Richard Marles announced the roll-out of the secure delivery service for Darwin with Member for Solomon, Damian Hale.

“This will provide a secure lodgement option for the Darwin business community which further protects their valuable information,” Mr Marles said.

“The Government places great importance on innovation and the effective protection of that innovation and this investment reflects that.

“Applications lodged through Australia Post will be transported to IP Australia in Canberra by secure overnight courier service, providing peace of mind to IP Australia and Australia Post customers.”

Mr Hale said the IP lodgement service was a welcome initiative as business growth in the region will result in an increase in demand for IP protection.

“For business, the security and convenience of the new IP lodgement service is a strong outcome for the region,” Mr Hale said.

“Darwin, and in fact the whole of the Northern Territory has a rich history of innovative thinking.

“Each year, more than 130 applications are lodged by NT residents across IP Australia’s rights areas, including patents, trade marks, designs and plant breeder’s rights.

“This new service will help the current generation of local innovators further protect their creativity.”  

Perth, Hobart, and Adelaide already benefit from the new IP lodgement service and remaining capital cities will have access to the service no later than August 2010.

More information on IP Australia and the lodgement of applications can be found at www.ipaustralia.gov.au