12 February 2026 · Elise Steegstra

How to Choose a Strong Trade Mark

Choosing a business name is one of the most important brand decisions you will make. But from a legal perspective, not all trade marks are created equal. If you want your trade mark to be registrable,...

21 January 2026 · Elise Steegstra

Getty Images v Stability AI: A Landmark AI Decision — and What It Means for Australia

In November 2025, the UK High Court handed down its long-awaited decision in Getty Images v Stability AI, the first major judgment anywhere in the world to meaningfully address how copyright and trade...

14 January 2026 · Elise Steegstra

Aldi, Dupes and IP Law: When “Inspired By” Becomes Infringement

Lookalike products — often called dupes — are everywhere. They promise consumers a familiar experience at a lower price, and for retailers, they are a powerful commercial strategy. But from an intellectual...

7 January 2026 · Elise Steegstra

Foreign Words as Trade Marks in Australia: When Are They Descriptive?

Using a foreign word in a brand name can feel clever, distinctive, or sophisticated. Many businesses assume that choosing a non-English word automatically gives them a stronger, more protectable trade...

18 December 2025 · Elise Steegstra

Beyond NDAs: Proactive Protection Strategies for Your IP

For many businesses, confidentiality protection begins and ends with an NDA. Sign the document, exchange information, move on. But in practice, that approach leaves significant gaps — and courts are rarely...

10 December 2025 · Elise Steegstra

Trade Mark Basics: What Every Business Needs to Know to Protect Its Brand

When you’re building a business, your brand is one of your most valuable assets. Yet too many founders and small business owners overlook a crucial part of brand protection: trade marks. In this blog,...