A new business is an exciting and challenging journey. Getting set up correctly from the start will help you on the path to success.
Youâre ready. Youâve worked out what registrations you need, you have an ABN, sought a trusted adviser, and checked if you need to register for GST or PAYG instalments. Youâve chosen a business name, have your website and social media accounts up and running and itâs time to hit go.
But wait â have you thought about trade marking your business name? Or worse, has someone else beaten you to it?
Trade marks are intellectual property. Other types of intellectual property include:
- patents
- design rights
- plant breederâs rights
- copyright
- trade secrets.
While you donât need a registered trade mark to apply for an ABN, registering a trade mark for your business name, logo, or other sign means you have exclusive rights to use your trade mark in Australia. Use TM CheckerExternal Link, IP Australiaâs free trade mark checking tool, to see if a name already exists.
A registered trade mark is a licensable and saleable asset. It also provides a legal avenue to stop others from using it on similar goods and services. A 5-minute check can help save you a lot of disappointment and work.
Check out IP AustraliaExternal Link for more information and get your trade mark sorted today.
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Last modified: 16 Aug 2023
QC 73150
Thought to register a trade mark for your new business? | Australian Taxation Office (ato.gov.au)
