Can You Trademark a Slogan or Tagline in Australia? “Just Do It.” “I’m Lovin’ It.” “Because You’re Worth It.” Sometimes a handful of words can become almost as recognisable as the business name or logo...
Most business owners think of trade marks as names and logos. But in the right circumstances, your packaging shape, container, or even a colour can become a registered trade mark. That can be commercially...
Many business owners assume trade mark protection travels with their brand. It doesn’t. Trade marks are territorial rights. If you register your mark in Australia through IP Australia, you obtain rights...
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,...
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...
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...
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...
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...
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,...
Intellectual property (IP) is one of the most valuable — and most misunderstood — assets in any modern business. Whether you’re a start-up founder, creative, consultant, or established business owner,...
Intellectual property is an economic instrument that no longer serves the purpose of advancing society. I. Introduction It is established in western or European society that intellectual property rights...
CAN IP RIGHTS BE USED FOR THE PROTECTION OF INDIGENOUS SACRED RITUALS AND CONSERVATION OF THEIR ASSOCIATED PLANTS? I Introduction Indigenous communities around the globe have had their spiritual Traditional...
Elise Steegstra is an Australian Lawyer and general law nerd
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Disclaimer: This website is intended to provide general information only and does not constitute legal advice. Always obtain professional advice tailored to your circumstances before acting on any legal issue.
I acknowledge the Wurundjeri Woi-wurrung people as the traditional owners and custodians of the land and waters on which I live and work, affirming their long-standing connection to the area through culture and ceremony. I recognise the crucial role of Elders, past, present and emerging, in community cohesion and the ongoing transmission of culture and history.
