In just a few weeks’ time anyone with a verified connection to Australia will be able to apply for a shorter domain name, commonly referred to as a “second level name” or the “.au namespace”. From 24 March 2022, applications can be made: to licence new...
In some exciting news for trade mark applicants, on 27 March 2022, Jamaica will become the 110th member of the Madrid System and the 126th country able to be designated for trade mark protection under the Madrid Protocol. For those of you who are not already...
Here's an update on the status of the FTA negotiations between Australia and the UK and how it may impact intellectual property owners and in particular, trade marks owners. On 17 December 2021, the Australian and UK governments virtually signed their highly anticipated Free Trade...
The question of ownership is an important one that should be considered before promoting a trade mark or applying for registration of a trade mark. In Australia, the Courts have held that there are two general mechanisms by which ownership is acquired. These are through use and/or through authorship. Ownership Through First...
RB (Hygiene Home) Australia Pty Ltd v Henkel Australia Pty Ltd [2021] FCA 1094 The ongoing case involving the FINISH Powerball trade mark demonstrates the ramifications of a business not being aware of their competitor’s brands and reputation, prior to launching their own brands and products...
There is an exception to the limited costs allowed in Australian opposition proceedings we discussed in our earlier opinion piece/blog article where an opponent to non-use proceedings has furnished the removal applicant with a ‘certificate of use of a trade mark’ at or before filing...
MBIP is currently acting for an applicant in opposition proceedings, where the opponent has filed close to 5,000 pages of supporting evidence – much of which is irrelevant (some showing only completely unrelated brands). Clearly a strategy intended to overwhelm, the volume of evidence filed...
Supporting Sunny Coast health since 1998 Undergoing surgery, rehabilitation and other ongoing medical treatments can be difficult at the best of times let alone during a pandemic. Wishlist is a not-for-profit charity which aims to make hospital experiences better by improving care and creating special programs...
If you have an appreciation for wining and dining, you are likely to be familiar with many names that are protected by Geographical Indications. Think Tequila, Sherry, Prosciutto di Parma, Columbian Coffee, Feta – and of course my favourite – Champagne 😊 and you will realise...
Michael Buck IP has bolstered its leadership team by promoting trade marks attorney Geraldine Rimmer to Principal. Geraldine has been an attorney for 20 years. She began her career as a solicitor completing an Articles of Clerkship at a general practice law firm and then went...
