To register a trademark in Australia, you file an application with IP Australia and define the products or services the mark will cover. Before filing, check earlier trademarks and confirm the correct owner. After you define the scope and submit the application, IP Australia examines it. An accepted application must then pass the opposition period before registration.
Australian Trademark Registration at a Glance
| Item | Details |
|---|---|
| Authority | IP Australia |
| Official search system | Australian Trademark Search |
| Standard filing fee | From AUD 250 per class using the picklist |
| TM Headstart | AUD 200 per class + AUD 130 conversion |
| Examination | Usually around 3–4 months |
| Minimum registration timeline | At least 7 months |
| Opposition period | 2 months after acceptance is published |
| Initial term | 10 years from filing |
| Address for service | Generally Australia or New Zealand |
Step 1: Search Existing Trademarks
IP Australia recommends searching before filing. The search may reveal an earlier right before you spend money on an application or launch. Use the Australian Trademark Search and look beyond exact matches. Businesses that want professional help can use Bonamark’s Australia trademark search.
Step 2: Identify the Owner
The applicant must be the person or legal entity that owns the mark. Ownership should be confirmed before filing.
Step 3: Decide What You Are Registering
An application may cover words, a logo, or a combined design. Other types of signs may also qualify. The filing strategy should reflect the branding that is actually used or intended to be used.
Step 4: Choose Goods, Services, and Classes
Australia uses 45 classes of goods and services. Government fees are charged per class, and using IP Australia’s picklist can reduce the filing fee.
Step 5: Choose the Filing Route
| Route | Government fee | How it works |
|---|---|---|
| Standard with picklist | AUD 250 per class | Direct filing using accepted goods/services wording. |
| Standard without picklist | AUD 400 per class | Allows custom descriptions. |
| TM Headstart | AUD 200 + AUD 130 conversion per class | Initial assessment before conversion to a standard application. |
Check current amounts on the official price calculator.
Step 6: File the Application
The application identifies the owner and shows the trademark. It must also state the covered products or services and include the filing fee. See IP Australia’s how to apply guide. Bonamark can assist through its Australia Trademark Registration service.
Step 7: Examination
Standard applications are generally examined in around three to four months. An examiner may find that a mark lacks distinctiveness or conflicts with an earlier right. Unclear product or service wording can also cause an objection.
Step 8: Examination Report
If issues are identified, IP Australia may issue an examination report. Its official guidance says applicants generally have 15 months to resolve the issues.
Step 9: Acceptance and Opposition
If accepted, the application is published and third parties have two months to oppose registration.
Step 10: Registration
If no successful opposition prevents registration, the mark proceeds to registration. IP Australia states the overall process takes at least seven months.
How Much Does It Cost?
A standard online application using the picklist starts at AUD 250 per class. Custom descriptions cost more, and TM Headstart has separate initial and conversion fees. Government application fees do not cover professional work. Search, filing support, responses, disputes, and renewals may be billed separately.
Can Foreign Companies Register?
Yes. A national application generally requires an address for service in Australia or New Zealand. International filing routes may have different procedural rules.
How Long Does an Australian Trademark Last?
The initial registration term is 10 years from filing and can be renewed for additional 10-year periods.
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What is the minimum government fee?
A standard online application using the picklist starts at AUD 250 per class.
How long does registration take?
At least seven months, with standard examination usually around three to four months.
What happens after acceptance?
The application is published for a two-month opposition period.
Can Bonamark help with both search and filing?
Yes. Bonamark can assist with the initial search and application. Support is also available after filing.
Trademark services in Australia
