Review of Trans-Tasman Patent Attorney Regime underway

This regime helps create a seamless business environment across New Zealand and Australia and ensures only registered patent attorneys can hold themselves out as “patent attorneys” or “patent agents” or provide certain patents-related services to the public.

A joint review of this regime needs to be undertaken within 5 years of implementation of the regime (by February 2022).

The review will examine whether the registration regime is achieving its objectives, and whether any changes or improvements should be made.

MBIE and IP Australia have released a joint consultation paper and are seeking feedback from the profession and those who use their services, as well as any other interested parties.

The consultation paper, along with information about how to provide feedback, is available on the IP Australia and MBIE websites. The closing date for submissions is 2 February 2022.

IP Australia website(external link)

Review of the Trans-Tasman patent attorney registration regime consultation page