Australian government highlights intellectual property risks faced by small businesses
A recent survey of over 260 small businesses conducted by the Advisory Council on Intellectual Property and IP Australia revealed that many are unaware that their business names do not provide the protection of a trade mark. The survey found that: * 80 percent of businesses surveyed incorrectly believed registering a business name also provides trade mark protection; * 50 percent of businesses were unaware that the same business name can be registered in different states; and * 85 percent of respondents incorrectly believed business name registration stops other businesses from using the same name. Unlike a business name, a trade mark is an exclusive, personal property right that provides protection throughout Australia. Infringement of an existing trade mark can potentially have serious consequences for business, such as legal bills or simply being forced to change stationary and signage. One potential solution is for small businesses to also register their business name as a trade mark. “The intellectual property of a small business, from its new ideas to how it makes products, is worth big dollars to operators. So it is well worthwhile small business investing a bit of time in investigating this issue now, to avoid getting caught in any future intellectual property tangle,” Fran Bailey said. “I would urge all interested small business operators to visit www.ipaustralia.gov.au/smartstart, a dedicated website on intellectual property issues for business. The website tries to simply and plainly explain this important issue. If necessary, professional advice should be sought to ensure the livelihoods of small businesses are protected.” A copy of the report is available at http://www.acip.gov.au/reviews.htm#reviewrel
•Date: 21st Feb 2006• Region: Australia • Type: Article •Topic: BC general |
