Innovation Patent

Now phased out in Australia, an innovation patent was formerly used to protect inventions with a lower threshold of inventiveness, requiring an innovative step rather than an inventive step as required by a standard patent. 

Beginning in 2020, the phase-out was completed by the 25th of August 2021. Anyone who filed for an innovation patent before this date has the right to continue their application under this type of patent. 

Anyone already holding a granted innovation patent continues to hold protection under Australian Patent law until it expires or lapses. 

Why Were Innovation Patents Phased Out?

The objective of the innovation patent was to support small to medium enterprises (SMEs). 

It allowed them to quickly develop and protect new inventions that had the potential to be quickly superseded by newer innovations.

Over time, it was acknowledged that these objectives were not being met as expected and that the need for an innovation patent was therefore unnecessary. 

What Is Used In Place Of Innovation Patents?

In place of innovation patents, inventors can now request protection under the standard patent application process. 

Standard patents are more complex to finalise than an innovation patent and unlike the latter, require an examination and an inventive step rather than an innovative step. 

While this can be viewed as a downside, the protection offered by a standard patent is 20 years, compared with only eight years for an innovation patent. 

For help dealing with an existing innovation patent, the conversion of an application or the pursuit of a new standard patent, it is best to speak with a qualified patent attorney.

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