Learn how long it takes to register as a patent attorney and how much it costs.
Steps to apply for registration
- Submit your application for approval to the Board for academic qualifications
- Submit your knowledge requirements to the Board for approval
- Complete the application for registration (which will need to include the above Board approval letters and statement of skill) to the Designated Manager of IP Australia
- Pay the registration fee
On average, the whole process from Board approvals to registration with the Designated Manager takes around 4 weeks to complete. In cases where exemptions are required, it may take longer, as some applications won't be reviewed until a Board meeting.
Registration fees
A fee is payable to IP Australia when you submit your application for registration. If you intend to also register as a trade marks attorney, you'll need to pay for that registration too.
| Application | Cost |
|---|---|
| Patent attorney registration |
$350 |
| Trade marks attorney registration |
$250 |
Expected review times
| Stage | Average review time |
|---|---|
| Approval of academic qualifications and exemptions | Up to 3 months |
| Approval of knowledge requirements | 15 business days |
| Approval of application | 15 business days |
Board meetings take place three times a year, you'll need to submit your application at least 8 weeks prior to the next meeting. If you miss the submission deadline, your application will be considered at the next meeting.
Approval of exemptions for non-accredited courses
If you have completed a course of study that hasn't been accredited by the Board, but you believe it meets the same outcomes as an accredited course, you will need to apply for an exemption prior to applying for approval of knowledge requirements.
The Board have published a curriculum of studies to assist you in comparing your studies to that of an accredited course.
The Board meetings take place three times a year, you'll need to submit your application/s at least eight weeks prior to the next meeting.
Cut-off dates for Board meetings
Registration
Once the Designated Manager approves your application, your details will be added to the Register of Patent Attorneys and listed on the TTIPA website.
Your registration is valid until 31 July, regardless of your initial registration date. Once registered, it's your responsibility to manage and maintain your registration, including annual renewal costs.
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How to apply
A step-by-step process of how to apply to the Designated Manager for patent attorney registration.
