Calix and ZESTY: Scaling zero-emissions steel through platform technology and IP
Decarbonising heavy industry requires more than incremental improvements, it demands fundamentally new process technologies that can be deployed rapidly and at scale. With IP at the core of their practice, Griffith Hack client Calix is addressing this challenge through the development of its platform flash calcination technology designed to transform how industrial heating and mineral processing are performed.
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Computer-implemented invention examination guidelines updated
On 3 July 2026, IP Australia updated Section 5.6.8.6 of the Patent Manual of Practice and Procedure (“PMPP”) relating to the patentability of computer-implemented inventions. The updates are in response to to IP Australia’s public consultation regarding an earlier update to the PMPP in March 2026.
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Process patents under pressure: Drafting and enforcement lessons from Pfizer v Samsung Bioepis
Manufacturing-process patents can protect valuable improvements in the way medicines are made. However, they can also present challenges for enforcement. Unlike a product patent, where the patented features may be apparent from the product itself, a process patent requires the patentee to establish what occurs behind a competitor’s closed doors.
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Jessica Lee elevated to Griffith Hack’s Principal ranks
Curiosity has sustained Jessica Lee’s career as a Patent Attorney and Trade Mark Attorney, as has her genuine interest in people, and the stories behind innovation. Jessica’s recent promotion to Principal is an exciting next step in an exceptional track record of supporting complex IP challenges.
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Laboratory examples, industrial promises: best method returns to centre stage
Australia’s best method requirement continues to punch above its weight as a ground of invalidity. The recent interlocutory decision by a single judge of the Federal Court in Kumiai v Kenso illustrates a related risk.
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Edith Hamilton and Amanda Stark named leading IP strategists in IAM Strategy 300, 2026
This year Amanda Stark joins Edith Hamilton as one of the world’s leading IP strategists, with both Griffith Hack principals earning a place in the IAM Strategy 300, 2026 edition. Edith continues her previous recognition, with this being her fourth year of inclusion in the list.
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The value is in the IP: Protecting Australian agritech’s real asset
Few industries are as woven into Australia’s economy and identity as agriculture, a sector that exports roughly 71 percent of its production by volume, according to ABARES, and ranks among the most efficient in the world. Sustaining that in a hotter, drier, more competitive century increasingly falls to technology – and the value in that technology, more often than not, lies in the intellectual property (IP) behind it.
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26 Griffith Hack principals recognised as WIPR Leaders 2026
We are proud to report that WIPR – World IP Review has announced 26 members of the Griffith Hack team as WIPR Leaders for 2026.
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Congratulations to our senior practitioners recognised as IP Stars in 2026
IP Stars is an independent global ranking produced by Managing IP. It shows how firms in Asia-Pacific are performing across a range of practice areas. Managing IP has been covering IP law and practice worldwide since 1990.
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Griffith Hack recognised in the 2026 IAM Patent 1000
We are proud to announce that seven Griffith Hack Principals and a Senior Associate have been recognised in the 2026 edition of the IAM Patent 1000 for their expertise in the areas of patent litigation, prosecution and transactions.
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Australia’s growing relevance as a jurisdiction for enforcing AI patents
Australia is a serious and growing market for the infrastructure that powers Artificial Intelligence (AI) making it a key filing destination for global IP portfolios directed to AI inventions.
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Battle of the batteries – recent innovations in energy storage technology
As the world seeks to move to cleaner energy sources and electric vehicles, there’s one critical technology at the heart of it all. Large batteries – these are being deployed at an accelerating rate across the globe.
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Can NOCO restart a best method NO GO in Australia?
In this article, we discuss the “best method” requirement, the date at which knowledge of the best method is assessed, and measures that could – or perhaps, should – be taken to rectify a lack of best method. Unknown to many outside Australia, our patent law stipulates that a complete specification must disclose “the best method known to the applicant of performing the invention”.
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Patent renewal fees: Managing costs, risks and growth
Renewal fees are an inherent aspect of patent ownership, and how they are managed can have a material impact on the value and effectiveness of a patent portfolio, as well as downstream commercial outcomes. For startups and scale‑ups in particular, renewal fees can be a growing cost burden.
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Patent Search FAQs – What you need to know to get started
Patent searches are valuable tools for growing businesses at every stage. In the early days though, many of our clients have similar questions, and we are here to help answer them! This article answers some of the common questions we see relating to patent searches. It outlines when and how to conduct a patent search, and how they can support businesses on their strategic journey.
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Australia’s Plant Breeders Protection Regime: Promoting Innovation
Plant breeding sits at the intersection of science, agriculture, and global trade – an intersection where intellectual property settings can either enable innovation or quietly undermine it if poorly executed or misaligned. In Australia, where Agri-tech is both an economic mainstay and an export-facing industry, the design of the plant protection framework reflects a deliberate attempt to reconcile competing interests: rewarding breeders for innovation, preserving access for farmers, and maintaining alignment with international markets.
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How agentic prior art searches have changed patent practice
It’s no surprise, perhaps, that the advent of AI-driven agentic prior art searches marks a turning point in patent law practice. What is less well-known, however, is the extent to which these searches have influenced the entire patent cycle, in turn compounding agentic searches’ effect on the way patent lawyers do their work.
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Griffith Hack named ‘Most Trusted Firm’ in the 2026 Client Choice Awards
Our client-focused approach and trusting partnerships have been recognised in Beaton’s annual Client Choice Awards, with Griffith Hack taking home the title of ‘Most Trusted Firm’ in the Specialist IP & Related Services category.
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Change on the way for examination of computer-implemented inventions in Australia
The High Court of Australia recently refused the Australian Commissioner of Patents’ application for special leave to appeal the decision of the Full Court of the Federal Court of Australia in Aristocrat Technologies Australia Pty Ltd v Commissioner of Patents [2025] FCAFC 131 (“Aristocrat ‘25”). As a result, IP Australia has just updated the section of the Patent Manual of Practice and Procedure (“PMPP”) related to patentability of computer implemented inventions.
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Australia’s top court to decide on eligibility of patent term extension for formulations
The High Court of Australia will decide whether patent claims directed to a formulation are eligible for pharmaceutical patent term extension (PTE), having on 12 March 2026 granted leave to appeal the decision of the Full Federal Court in Otsuka Pharmaceutical Co Ltd v Sun Pharma ANZ Pty Ltd [2025] FCAFC 161.
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Faster, simpler and more certain: consultation opens on productivity reforms to the Australian patent process
In a wide-reaching consultation paper, IP Australia has presented the Australian Government with a list of potential legislative reform proposals, and some preliminary views on how IP regulatory compliance may be streamlined and simplified, all with a view to improving productivity growth.
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Event: Unlocking the value of patent searching and analytics
Join our interactive small-group session and learn how to make sense of patent documents, search smarter, and uncover insights that support innovation and commercial decisions.
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How Australian firms are capitalising on patent uptick from China
Applications from US-based filers have acted as a source of stable business for patent firms in Australia for many years, but the last few years’ worth of data shows a fascinating shift.
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Landmark UK Supreme Court decision about Patenting AI
Hot on the heels of the High Court of Australia’s decision to refuse the Australian Commissioner of Patents special leave application in Aristocrat Technologies Australia Pty Ltd v Commissioner of Patents [2025] FCAFC 131, the Supreme Court of the United Kingdom has delivered a landmark decision about patenting inventions that utilise artificial neural networks (“ANNs”). The importance of the decision cannot be overstated, seeing that ANNs technically underpin almost all modern AI systems, including generative AI.
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TGA Consultation Open on Proposed Reforms to Medical Device Regulation in Australia
If you are a medical device manufacturer or involved in seeking the certification of such devices in Australia, the Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) wants to hear from you regarding proposed reforms to medical device regulation.
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Game Over on Special Leave: High Court Refuses Leave to Appeal in Aristocrat
In a highly awaited decision, the High Court of Australia has refused the Commissioner of Patents’ application for special leave to appeal the decision of the Full Court of the Federal Court of Australia in Aristocrat Technologies Australia Pty Ltd v Commissioner of Patents [2025] FCAFC 131. The High Court’s disposition of the Commissioner’s special leave application is reported at Commissioner of Patents v Aristocrat Technologies Australia Pty Ltd [2026] HCADisp 15.
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More Options for Australian PCT Filers: IPOS and EPO Join the List
IP Australia has been busy over the holiday break, announcing deals with the Intellectual Property Office of Singapore (IPOS) and the European Patent Office (EPO) allowing patent applicants filing their PCT applications in Australia to nominate IPOS of the EPO as International Searching Authority (ISA) and International Preliminary Examining Authority (IPEA). This is in addition to a previous agreement with the Korean Patent Office (KIPO) to act as ISA and IPEA.
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Unlock the IP value hiding in plain sight
This guide is for Australian founders who are ready to secure what your competitors hope you overlook.
Griffith Hack’s managing director, Aaron Le Poidevin has a passion for innovation. In over 15 years of working in startups, technology, corporate innovation and growth strategy, he has sat on both sides of the table – building startups and advising them. Over this time, it’s become clear; when companies undervalue their intangible assets, competitors step in.
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Suspense builds for special leave applications before High Court of Australia – grant or denial on 5 February 2026
A number of important special leave applications are currently before the High Court of Australia, with grant or denial decisions due on 5 February 2026. These include requests to appeal significant Federal Court rulings in copyright and patent disputes – notably Otsuka Pharmaceutical v Sun Pharma and Aristocrat Technologies v Commissioner of Patents.
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IP deal or merger? Navigating Australia’s new mandatory notification regime
Australia’s merger control regime is about to undergo its most significant transformation in decades. From 1 January 2026, the current voluntary system will be replaced by a mandatory notification framework. It is important that business leaders are aware of these changes, especially when planning their strategies and potential partnerships.
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Sun sets on Otsuka’s Pharmaceutical Patent Term Extension
The Full Court’s decision in Otsuka Pharmaceutical Co Ltd v Sun Pharma has clarified that only patents claiming a new active pharmaceutical ingredient (API) qualify for a patent term extension (PTE). Formulations and dosage forms are now excluded. This ruling could reshape patent strategies and raises questions about the validity of existing PTEs granted for formulations.
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Clinical trials and their impact on patentability in Australia and Europe – a comparison
The recent decision in T1934/23 has caused concern, with the European Patent Office’s Board of Appeal finding a lack of inventive step for patent claims to a new medical use in light of a disclosure in a clinical trial protocol. However, we patent attorneys from down under have had bigger concerns dating back to a 2020 decision, where a clinical trial protocol was found novelty destroying for the corresponding patent claims in Australia.
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Pushing boundaries of patent infringement on methods conducted locally vs overseas – Scidera v Meat & Livestock Australia (No 2)
The Federal Court’s recent decision in Scidera, Inc. v Meat & Livestock Australia Limited (No 2) [2025] FCA 1236 tackles a novel question: can a method patent be infringed if a key step occurs overseas?
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Amanda Stark and David Hughes recognised in 2026 edition of IAM Global Leaders
Amanda Stark, Principal – Chemlife and David Hughes, Principal – EICT have been recognised in the 2026 edition of IAM Global Leaders for their outstanding expertise, client service and leadership in the IP profession.
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Patent data reveals trends in Australia’s cobalt supply chain
In this article, we use patent data to analyse Australia’s position in the cobalt global supply chain, gaining interesting insights.
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Griffith Hack rising stars recognised four years running
We are proud to announce that Sarah Cox, Dr Simone Shu-Yen Lee, and Dr Chris Vindurampulle have been named as Rising Stars for 2025 in Managing IP’s annual IP STARS guide.
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Aristocrat and Beyond: The Future of Computer-Implemented Inventions in Australia
The Full Federal Court’s decision in Aristocrat Technologies v Commissioner of Patents marks a pivotal shift in Australia’s approach to computer-implemented inventions.
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Beyond the Two-Step Test: A New Era for Computer Implemented Inventions in Australia
In a landmark ruling that reshapes the landscape of software patentability in Australia, the Full Federal Court has delivered its decision in Aristocrat Technologies Australia Pty Ltd v Commissioner of Patents [2025] FCAFC 131.
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Invention Disclosed Too Soon? How to Stay in New Zealand’s Good Graces
An inadvertent public disclosure can deal a fatal blow to the patentability of a new technology. Fortunately, however, New Zealand is among jurisdictions providing a one-year grace period to file a complete patent application following the earliest date of a self-disclosure.
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Trends in patent filing for artificial intelligence-assisted medical technologies
Medical technologies incorporating artificial intelligence (AI) are an emerging area of innovation with the potential to transform healthcare. Employing techniques such as machine learning, deep learning and natural language processing, AI enables machine-based systems that can make predictions, recommendations or decisions that influence real or virtual environments based on a given set of objectives.
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Griffith Hack Sponsors BrainTech 2025
Griffith Hack is proud to be a Gold Sponsor of the inaugural BrainTech 2025 conference, taking place on 30 October 2025 at Jumar bioincubator in Melbourne.
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The Hidden Cost of Disclosure, Secrecy and Sales: Pre-Filing Pitfalls for Patents in AU, EU and US
A recent decision (G1/23) by the Enlarged Board of Appeal of the European Patent Office (EPO) has dramatically expanded what counts as prior art. Under this decision, products made commercially available prior to filing may now constitute prior art regardless of whether their composition or internal structure was publicly accessible or analysable.
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You want an Australian patent, and you used AI to generate your invention. Do you want to tell? (Part 2)
In this second instalment, Dr James-Robert Cram explores the strategic and commercial implications of voluntarily disclosing AI use in the patenting process, even when it’s not legally required.
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What is the value of expert evidence in Australian patent opposition proceedings?
In Australian patent opposition proceedings, expert evidence isn’t just helpful, it can be decisive. Principal Dr Chris Vindurampulle reviewed a recent decision in a case that underscores a critical lesson: in technically dense disputes, persuasive expert evidence can make or break a patent application.
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Celebrating Growth: Seven Key Promotions at Griffith Hack
Griffith Hack is proud to announce seven promotions for 2025, including the promotion of Simone Shu-Yen Lee and Simon Gapes to Principal. The promotions are effective 1 July 2025.
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Tariffs, Patents and Pills: Australia’s Pharma Dilemma
Australia’s pharmaceutical trade with the United States is characterised by significant export and import figures—US$1.35 billion in exports and US$2.38 billion in imports in 2024—but is complicated by longstanding challenges in patent strategy and regulatory frameworks. These issues, governed by Section 26B of the Therapeutic Goods Act 1989, reflect the ongoing struggle to balance equitable access to affordable medicines with robust intellectual property protections, highlighting complexities in bilateral pharmaceutical trade.
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Level Up or Fall Behind: What PIUG 2025 Taught Us About the Future of IP
Here we explore themes from the 28th PIUG Conference, highlighting the evolving challenges for IP professionals, the integration of AI tools in patent information analysis, and the importance of global community connections in the field.
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A Strict Approach to Patent Claim Interpretation Makes Entresto Hard to Swallow
The Full Court of the Federal Court of Australia in Novartis AG v Pharmacor Pty Limited [2025] FCAFC 33 emphasized the importance of precise patent claim drafting, adopting a literal approach to claim construction that excluded salt complexes from specified compositions.
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Griffith Hack ranked as a Tier 1 – Trade Mark and Patent Attorney Firm
The IP STARS (Managing IP’s rankings publication) 2025 Firm rankings, Trade Mark rankings and Top 250 women results are out!
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Griffith Hack ranked in Best Lawyers ‘Best Law Firms – Australia Region’ 2026 edition
Best Law Firms – Australia rankings celebrate firms that have consistently demonstrated excellence in legal expertise and industry knowledge.
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17 Griffith Hack principals recognised as WIPR Leaders 2025
We are proud to report that WIPR – World IP Review has announced 17 members of the Griffith Hack team as WIPR Leaders for 2025.
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Celebrating World Intellectual Property Day 2025
Every year on April 26th, we celebrate World Intellectual Property (IP) Day, a day dedicated to raising awareness about the role of intellectual property rights in fostering innovation and creativity.
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Trade secrets vs patents in life sciences: Striking the right balance
Dr Chris Vindurampulle and Karen Sinclair consider the advantages and risks of patents and trade secrets within a broader commercialisation framework.
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You want an Australian patent but you used AI to generate your invention. Do you have to tell?
Dr James Robert-Cram delves into a crucial topic for innovators and inventors: the importance of transparently disclosing the use of artificial intelligence (AI) in creating new inventions when applying for an Australian patent.
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Unlocking patent lifespan: An Australian perspective on pharmaceutical patent term extensions
Drs Chris Vindurampulle and Shane Horsefield provide an update on the evolving legal landscape in Australia regarding how claim language impacts the eligibility for patent term extension (PTE).
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Podcast – Turning big ideas into big business: IP and commercialisation
Griffith Hack Principal David Hughes along with Rohan McDougall from Curtin University joined the From Idea to Intellectual Property podcast to discuss how to turn great ideas into big business, with host Lisa Leong.
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Griffith Hack attending INTA 2025 in San Diego
Griffith Hack will be attending INTA 2025 in San Diego from 17-21 May.
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Griffith Hack attending BIO 2025 in Boston
Griffith Hack will be attending BIO 2025 in Boston from 16-19 June.
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Griffith Hack welcomes new Principal, Dr Chris Vindurampulle
We are please to announce that Dr Chris Vindurampulle has joined the firm as Principal. Dr Vindurampulle is located in the Melbourne office, further expanding our Chemistry and Life Sciences team.
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Women of Science: Celebrating her voice in STEM
We hear from Georgina Higinbotham, our Practice Group Leader for Engineering & ICT (EICT) on why the UN’s International Day of Women and Girls in Science is important to her.
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From patents to progress: Australia’s $23B challenge – Part 3
In part 3 of From patents to progress, we look at how Australia is going all in on a review of the country’s research and development (R&D) performance.
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From patents to progress: Unpacking the future of IP – Part 2
Attending the recent AIPPI (International Association for the Protection of Intellectual Property) World Congress in China, gave our Managing Director Aaron Le Poidevin a unique vantage point for examining the trends and challenges in global innovation, highlighted by WIPO’s recent release of the Global Innovation Index (GII). He provides his analysis and view.
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Tips and tricks for prosecuting patents in Australia and New Zealand – Part 4
In the last of our articles of this four part series, Dr Leon Wong and Dr Toby Thompson, discuss steps that applicants can take to slow down prosecution in New Zealand so that a patent is not granted straight away.
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U.K. Supreme Court to hear appeal in case involving patentability of AI inventions
Anthony Selleck discusses the implications of the UK Supreme Court’s decision to hear an appeal in a case involving the patentability of AI inventions.
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From patents to progress: Unpacking the future of IP
Aaron Le Poidevin recently attended the 2024 AIPPI World Congress held in China. He provides his insights on the Congress.
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Edith Hamilton in 2025 edition of IAM Strategy 300 Global Leaders
Principal Edith Hamilton has been recognised as one of the world’s leading IP strategists in the 2025 edition of the IAM Strategy 300 Global Leaders.
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The IPONZ–CNIPA Arrangement: A new avenue for expediting patent examination in New Zealand?
In this article Amanda Stark and Dr Megan Cole discuss how the IPONZ–CNIPA arrangement can be used to decrease wait times for receiving a first examination report in New Zealand.
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Australian court addresses support and sufficiency requirements
Dr Jing Fung Tan, Ellen Cha and Yasra Saaed, review a case where the new sufficiency and support requirements were recently considered for the first time at the appellate level.
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Amplifying IP series – The art of the detailed description
In this fourth article, Principal and Patent Attorney, Rob Wulff discusses drafting of the detailed description when drafting patent specifications.
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David Hughes recognised in the 2025 edition of IAM Global Leaders
Principal, David Hughes, has been recognised in the 2025 edition of IAM Global Leaders for his leading skills, expertise and ability to innovate and deliver value for his clients.
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Melbourne-based success story: Momelotinib
This year the Prime Minister’s Prize for Innovation was awarded to Professor Andrew F. Wilks and Dr Chris Burns in recognition of their contribution to drug discovery and development in Australia.
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Why a U.S. Federal Trade Commission Rule may affect Australian businesses relying on trade secrets
In this article, Ila Lohning and Karen Sinclair consider the ramifications for businesses that rely on trade secrets.
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TrA(I)de Secrets: how to keep AI innovations in the vault
In this article Georgina Higinbotham and Anthony Selleck discuss the effect AI is having on intellectual property protection and how trade secrets play a vital role.
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Key trends in technology: An analysis using patent data
Recently, Griffith Hack’s Dr Radhika Moore, Patent Attorney and Noam Amitay, IP Intelligence Manager, attended AusIMM’s second Critical Minerals Conference held in Brisbane, Australia, presenting Key trends in technology: an analysis using patent data.
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USPTO to terminate After Final Consideration Pilot Program 2.0 on December 14, 2024
The USPTO’s After Final Consideration Pilot Program 2.0 (AFCP 2.0) will terminate on December 14, 2024 after eight years of operation.
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Griffith Hack patent attorneys named 2024 Rising Stars by Managing IP
Griffith Hack’s Sarah Cox & Dr Simone Shu-Yen Lee have been named as Rising Stars for 2024 by Managing IP.
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Griffith Hack attending APAA 2024 in Manila
Griffith Hack will be attending the 76th Council Meeting of the Asian Patent Attorneys Association (APAA 2024) in Manila, Philippines from 18-21 November.
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Congratulations to our newest Patent Attorneys
Griffith Hack is proud to announce that Yasra Saeed and Mitchell Nothling have become registered Patent Attorneys.
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Tips and tricks for prosecuting patents in Australia and New Zealand – Part 3
In our third article of this four part series, Dr Leon Wong and Dr Toby Thompson, discuss steps that applicants can take to slow down prosecution in Australia so that a patent is not granted straight away.
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Patent term extension: Supply not use
Craig Don Paul and Malcolm Lyons review the Australian Patent Office decision Banki Haddock Fiora v Glaxo Group Limited [2024] APO 20.
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Griffith Hack attending AIPPI 2024 in Hangzhou
Griffith Hack will be attending the 2024 AIPPI World Congress in Hangzhou from 19-22 October.
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IP Australia’s patent fee updates: What to expect this October
Having completed a lengthy review process, including considering public feedback on proposed fee amendments, IP Australia is set to implement changes to its schedule of fees in relation to patents, trade marks, designs, and plant breeders rights commencing 1 October 2024.
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No room for excess: Understanding changes to patent excess claim fees at IP Australia
From 1 October 2024, IP Australia will implement changes to its fee structure. Some official fees will increase and others will be removed. However, the most significant change relates to excess claim fees.
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Spacecraft thruster awarded Griffith Hack prize at Curtinnovation Awards
The team behind a miniature spacecraft thruster for small satellites has been named the winner of the Griffith Hack Overall Prize at Curtin University’s 2024 Curtinnovation Awards.
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Insights from the Critical Minerals Conference 2024
Recently, Griffith Hack’s Dr Radhika Moore, Patent Attorney and Noam Amitay, IP Intelligence Manager, attended AusIMM’s second Critical Minerals Conference held in Brisbane, Australia, presenting Key trends in technology: an analysis using patent data.
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Griffith Hack team recognised in Who’s Who Legal’s IP 2024 report
Griffith Hack’s Derek Baigent, Simon Gapes, Nicola Scheepers, and Amanda Stark have been recognised in the Who’s Who Legal’s (WWL’s) IP 2024 report.
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Edith Hamilton named leading IP strategist in 2024 edition of IAM Strategy 300
Principal Edith Hamilton has been recognised as one of the world’s leading IP strategists in the 2024 edition of the IAM Strategy 300.
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Griffith Hack authors IP Protection for Pharmaceuticals (Australia) for Thomson Reuters’ Practical Law
Griffith Hack’s Gavin Adkins and Dr Tim Fyfe have authored a Practice Note for Thomson Reuters’ Practical Law.
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Twenty one Griffith Hack principals recognised as WIPR Leaders for 2024
Twenty one Griffith Hack principals have been individually recognised in this years’ World Intellectual Property Review Leaders Guide.
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Amplifying IP series – The art of drafting patents
In this third article, Principal and Patent Attorney, Rob Wulff shares his thoughts on the art of patent specification drafting.
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Griffith Hack celebrates excellence with four promotions
Griffith Hack is proud to announce the promotion of four team members effective 1 July 2024.
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Tips and tricks for prosecuting patents in Australia and New Zealand – Part 2
In this four part series, Amanda Stark and Dr Megan Cole provide tips and tricks for bypassing examination wait times in New Zealand so that a granted patent is reached expediently.
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Griffith Hack team recognised in IAM Patent 1000 for 2024
Seven Griffith Hack principals have been recognised in the 2024 edition of the IAM Patent 1000 for their expertise in the area of patent law.
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Reasons to file patents in Australia
What makes Australia such an advantageous location for filing patents?
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Griffith Hack team recognised in IP Stars 2024
Griffith Hack’s Amanda Stark, Nicola Scheepers and Karen Sinclair have been recognised in the IP STARS rankings for 2024.
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Federal Budget 2024: Key insights and takeaways
We discuss the key measures in Australia’s 2024-25 federal budget that could help drive innovation, research, commercialisation and business growth.
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Our newest Patent Attorney – Mitchell Stott
Griffith Hack is proud to announce that Mitchell Stott has become a registered Patent Attorney.
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Griffith Hack attending BIO 2024 in San Diego
Griffith Hack will be attending BIO 2024 in San Diego from 3-6 June.
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Amplifying IP series – The interview (aka storytelling)
In this second article, Principal and Patent Attorney, Rob Wulff shares his thoughts regarding the initial interviews with the patent attorney.
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Griffith Hack team member named 2024 Rising Stars by Australasian Lawyer
Griffith Hack is proud to announce that Sara Pearson has been named as Rising Stars for 2024 by Australasian Lawyer.
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What’s going on with Australia’s proposed patent notification scheme for generic and biosimilar medicines?
The proposed patent notification scheme for generic and biosimilar medicines by the Australian Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) seems to have fallen of its priority list. Gavin Adkins, from our Law and Trade Marks team, reflects on the TGA’s consultation process, its subsequent announcements and the impact on innovators and generics.
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Tips and tricks for prosecuting patents in Australia and New Zealand
In this four part series, Amanda Stark and Dr Megan Cole provide some tips and tricks for bypassing examination wait times in Australia so that a granted patent is reached expediently.
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Fashion law in Australia: Navigating the intersection of creativity and regulation
The Griffith Hack team comprising Derek Baigent, Shannon Fati, Jenny Wyndham-Wheeler and Ellen Baker authored the Australian chapter of The Global Legal Post’s second edition Law Over Borders Fashion Law Guide. Here’s a short summary of their chapter.
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Patentspeak: The concept of utility
Patent Attorneys, Robert Wulff and Dr Arun Nagasubramanian discuss the concept of utility, one of the requirements that must be met by a patent granted in Australia.
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Amplifying IP series – Unchartered waters: invention searching
In this first article, Patent Attorney, Rob Wulff takes a deep dive into invention searching. In addition to highlighting the risks involved, he provides recommendations on how searching can help rather than hinder.
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Australian Innovation Patents: Gone, but not forgotten
Amanda Stark and Dr Tim Fyfe discuss that innovation patents are still a useful tool for Australian patentees and can provide patent protection for subject matter that does not meet the threshold of patentability required for a standard patent.
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Our newest Patent Attorney – Dr Radhika Moore
Griffith Hack is proud to announce that Dr Radhika Moore has become a registered Patent Attorney.
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Green hydrogen innovation awarded Griffith Hack prize at Curtinnovation Awards
A new and cost-effective way to extract green hydrogen from untreated water has been named the winner of the Griffith Hack Overall Prize at Curtin University’s 2023 Curtinnovation Awards.
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Griffith Hack to attend the APAA 20th General Assembly in Singapore
Greg Munt, Gavin Adkins, Jessica Lee, Dr Simone Shu-Yen Lee and Dr Jenny Park will represent Griffith Hack at the 20th General Assembly of the Asian Patent Attorneys Association in Singapore.
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AI, Intangibles & Education: Insights from IPBC Australasia 2023
Sarah Cox, Karen Sinclair and Kerry Dick provide a snapshot of some of the key topics discussed during IPBC Australasia 2023.
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Insights from the 21st FICPI Open Forum: SEP and FRAND negotiations, Unified Patent Court & more
Christian Schieber recently attended the 21st FICPI Open Forum in London, joining over 400 colleagues from the international IP attorney community.
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Griffith Hack team members named 2023 Rising Stars by Managing IP
Griffith Hack’s Jack Collings, Sarah Cox and Dr Simone Shu-Yen Lee have been named as Rising Stars for 2023 by Managing IP.
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Edith Hamilton named leading IP strategist in 2023 edition of IAM Strategy 300
Principal David Hughes has received recognition as one of the World’s Leading IP Strategists in this year’s IAM 300.
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Podcast: A quantum computer in your pocket?
Dr Simone Shu-Yen Lee joined the From Idea to Intellectual Property podcast to discuss all things quantum computing with host Lisa Leong.
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Collaboration, connectivity & magic: Insights from the 2023 IPO Annual Meeting
Aaron LePoidevin and Georgina Higinbotham provide their insights and key takeaways from the 2023 IPO Annual Meeting in Boston.
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Griffith Hack attending conferences across the globe this September & October
Griffith Hack will be represented at several global intellectual property and industry conferences this September and October.
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Generative AI and its impact on the IP system
Griffith Hack managing director Aaron LePoidevin takes a look into the challenges, opportunities and potential overall impact of generative AI technology on the IP system.
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Congratulations to our new registered patent & trade marks attorneys
In the first half of 2023, three Griffith Hack trainees have registered as patent & trade marks attorneys in Australia and New Zealand.
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Australian Government again denied $325m damages claim in clopidogrel injunction dispute
The Full Court of the Federal Court of Australia has dismissed the Commonwealth’s appeal against a 2020 decision to deny it $325m in damages in a dispute relating to the antiplatelet drug clopidogrel.
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Griffith Hack announces four promotions, including two principal elevations
Griffith Hack is proud to announce the promotion of four team members, including the elevation of Dr James-Robert Cram and Kerry Dick to principal
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Griffith Hack team recognised in IAM Patent 1000 for 2023
Seven Griffith Hack principals have been recognised in the 2023 edition of the IAM Patent 1000 for their expertise in the area of patent law.
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Griffith Hack team recognised in IP Stars 2023
Griffith Hack principals Amanda Stark, Nicola Scheepers, Janelle Borham and Karen Sinclair have been recognised in the IP STARS rankings for 2023.
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Quantum computing: start-up or up-start? Part 2
We chart some of the patent filings in quantum computing and then take a further look at the potential applications for quantum computing technologies.
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Griffith Hack attending BIO 2023 in Boston
Griffith Hack will be attending BIO 2023 in Boston from 5-8 June.
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Griffith Hack authors Patents 2023 in Lexology’s Getting the Deal Through
Amanda Stark and Gavin Adkins have authored the Australian and New Zealand chapters of Patents 2023 in Lexology’s Getting the Deal Through.
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Inventorship in the age of generative AI: What is the path forward?
Patent systems globally are grappling with the emergence of generative AI technology like ChatGPT. Is it time for international cooperation to establish common guidelines for AI-assisted inventions?
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New divisional patent application management process at the Australian Patent Office
We explain the new divisional application process proposed by the Australian Patent Office.
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When additional data provides additional headaches
What happens with further data generated after the 12-month priority period and after filing the PCT application?
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Sowing the seeds of renewals: recap of the Nufarm v Advanta Federal Court decision
Sarah Cox reviews the Federal Court’s decision in Nufarm Australia v Advanta Seeds to allow an extension of time for payment of a patent renewal fee.
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Quantum computing: start-up or up-start? Part 1
In this series Dr Simone Shu-Yen Lee discusses the vast potential of quantum computing and looks at how Australia is responding to this evolving industry.
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Why “ITS” is a good idea to save time and money in the patent process
Robert Wulff and Dr Radhika Moore provide insight on performing International Type Search on Australian provisional applications.
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Crown Melbourne gambles on patentability of Roulette game
Robert Wulff and Dr Radhika Moore provide their observations on the recent Crown Melbourne decision by a Delegate of the Australian Patent Office.
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They’re here! The Unitary Patent and Unified Patent Court arrive in Europe.
Amanda Stark, Toby Thompson and Craig Don Paul provide an overview of the UP and UPC system updates in Europe.
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Griffith Hack will be attending AUTM’s 2023 Annual Meeting in Austin, Texas
Griffith Hack is proud to sponsor the 2022 edition of the Fragment-Based Drug Discovery Down Under Conference.
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Early national phase entry & expedited examination requests: What’s possible in Australia?
Robyn Heard and Dr Sophie Rankenburg provide answers to commonly asked questions about early national phase entry in Australia, and the options available for expedited examination requests.
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Extension of time: Australian law requirements and practice tips
Malcolm Lyons and Craig Don Paul discuss Australia’s Extension of Time rules, which can remedy an error or omission by a patent applicant or their agent.
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Full Court correct in deciding that only humans can invent
High Court confirms that an artificial intelligence system can not be named as an inventor of a patent.
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Griffith Hack’s Edith Hamilton joins speaker line-up at IPBC Australasia 2022
Griffith Hack will have a strong presence at IPBC Australasia 2022 with special counsel Edith Hamilton joining the event’s line-up of speakers.
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Are you patent ready? IP guidance for life sciences researchers
Whether you are an academic or industry-based researcher, the question is the same: when is the right time to file a patent application?
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Making your mark: Protect your product with patent marking
We explore the concept of patent marking, the real meaning of patent pending, and when you as an inventor or product owner should mark your product.
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Griffith Hack sponsors Fragment-Based Drug Discovery Down Under Conference 2022
Griffith Hack is proud to sponsor the 2022 edition of the Fragment-Based Drug Discovery Down Under Conference.
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Soft decision on computer-implemented inventions
Dr Simone Shu-Yen Lee and Tom Hamilton-Gilligan provide early insights into the High Court’s decision of Aristocrat Technologies Australia Pty Limited v Commissioner of Patents [2020] FCA 778 (5 June 2020).
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Karen Sinclair talks synthetic biology on the From Idea to Intellectual Property podcast
Karen Sinclair joins host Lisa Leong on the From Idea to Intellectual Property podcast series to discuss the emerging trends and key issues in the area of synthetic biology.
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Griffith Hack announces the promotion of five team members
Griffith Hack is proud to announce the promotion of five members of our team, including the elevation of Jennifer Wyndham-Wheeler to principal.
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Spotlight Series: Regenerative Medicine – Part 2
Welcome to the second article of our Spotlight Series on one of the most exciting frontiers of scientific research and innovation, regenerative medicine.
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Amanda Stark named Patent Stars for 2022 by Managing IP
Griffith Hack principal Amanda Stark has been named as a Patent Star in the IP STARS 2022 rankings by Managing IP.
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Reversal of fortune – Full Court decides that an artificial intelligence is not an “inventor”
Anthony Selleck reviews the decision in Commissioner of Patents v Thaler [2022] FCAFC 62 which reverses an earlier ruling that artificial intelligence can be an “inventor” for the purposes of the Australian Patents Act 1990.
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AI and Digital Capability Centre Grants: What you need to know before applying
Applications are now open for Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Digital Capability Centre Grants of up to $11 million. Here’s what you need to know before applying.
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Federal Budget 2022: What’s in it to accelerate Australia’s innovation agenda?
We discuss the key measures in Australia’s 2022-23 federal budget that could help drive innovation, research commercialisation and business growth.
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From idea to inception and beyond: Important learnings from female biotech founders
Female biotech founders took centre-stage at AusBiotech 2021 with the leaders of some of Australia’s most innovative start-ups coming together to discuss their experiences in the commercial scientific world.
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Saving grace: Options if you disclose your invention without a patent application
Publicly disclosing new technology before a patent application has been filed can jeopardise patent coverage – but there are options available to you in the event of disclosure.
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Virus filtration patent gets clean bill of health
In a recent decision of the Australian Patent Office, a patent application directed to a membrane for filtering biological products was upheld following opposition.
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Daniel Hsieh registers as patent attorney in Australia and New Zealand
Griffith Hack is pleased to announce that Daniel Hsieh is now a registered patent attorney in Australia and New Zealand.
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Awkward first dates:
How is patent term extension calculated when a patent covers more than one pharmaceutical substance with regulatory approval?
Bayer Pharma Aktiengesellschaft [2022] APO
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Extending the 12-month grace period for filing patent applications – what you need to know
Can the 12-month grace period for filing your patent application be extended? Yes, it can – but subject to the facts.
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Your Australian patent application has been opposed – what next?
Australia’s pre‑grant opposition proceedings are playing a more significant role in the strategies of patentees and challengers. So what should a patent owner do when faced with an opposition in Australia?
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Why are embryonic stem cells not able to be patented in Australia?
Despite not being specifically excluded under s18 of the Australian Patents Act, technology utilising embryonic stem cells is not able to be patented in Australia. Why is this so?
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Recent progress in psychedelic therapies
With increasing awareness of the prevalence of mental ill-health in society, we analyse promising psychedelic therapies that have not yet entered mainstream.
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Spotlight Series: Regenerative Medicine – Part 1
The first in a five-part series on one of the most exciting frontiers of scientific research and innovation, regenerative medicine.
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Innovation patents: options for challenging problematic cases
What are your options if you identify an innovation patent that affects your freedom to operate?
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Patent drafting conventions fall foul of Australian Courts
In a recent opposition appeal decision of the Federal Court of Australia, an Australian patent application by Nalco Company was found invalid for lack of support and lack of clear enough and complete enough disclosure.
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Revisiting how early is earliest? Further developments in Australian patent term extension law
Merck Sharp & Dohme Corp. v Sandoz Pty Ltd [2021] FCA 947
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Expert evidence keeps RAFT buoyant in strawman patent opposition
Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organisation (CSIRO) v Cytec Industries Inc. [2021] APO 27
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A comeback for Australian patent oppositions
With Australia’s innovation patent system set to end later this month, pre-grant opposition proceedings will likely play a significant role in the strategies of challengers.
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Draft roadmap for Australian regenerative medicine released for comment
AusBiotech has released a draft strategic roadmap for a new regenerative medicine Catalyst.
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Guidance on patenting diagnostics in Australia: Ariosa Diagnostics v Sequenom
Federal Court confirms that a non-invasive diagnostic test for prenatal conditions is patentable subject matter in Australia.
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How the proposed patent box scheme could benefit Australian industry
Principal Karen Sinclair discusses the Australian Government’s proposed patent box scheme and what needs to be considered to ensure successful implementation.
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Griffith Hack maintains top tier status in IP STARS 2021 rankings
Griffith Hack has maintained its status as an industry leader in patent prosecution, receiving tier one status in the IP Stars 2021 rankings. Principals Janelle Borham and Amanda Stark were both recognised individually as Patent Stars.
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How early is earliest? Developments in Australian patent term extension law
Malcolm Lyons looks at the decision in Ono Pharmaceutical Co, Ltd v Commissioner of Patents which has provided long needed clarity on requests for patent term extension.
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The end is near for Australia’s innovation patent system: What you need to know
Australia’s innovation patent system is ending soon, but, there’s still time to take advantage of the system – you just need to act soon.
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Australia’s Federal Budget 2021: Key takeaways and opportunities
Investment in tech, research and innovation highlights value of IP protection
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Australian government rediscovers R&D value amid COVID-19 crisis
With two quarters of consecutive GDP contraction due to coronavirus-related shutdowns, Australia is now poised to face economic challenges not experienced since 1991.
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Thirteen – unlucky for some: Support and sufficiency in Australia following MSD v Wyeth
The MSD v Wyeth judgment demonstrates the more exacting standard now required for the level of disclosure in patent specifications. It also cements the shift in Australia towards alignment with UK and European requirements.
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Ono: Broader is not always better
Why is patent term extension is so important to companies developing and commercialising new pharmaceutical substances?
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Protecting your digital health
Track and trace smartphone applications used in the fight against COVID 19 are representative of a relatively new industry falling between the healthcare, IT, medical devices and pharmaceutical sector.
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Owning COVID-19: Would if you could?
f the Earth’s biome, viruses are part of its biodiversity, but has consideration been given as to whether anyone can ‘own’ or should benefit from COVID-19?
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Unproven hypotheses in clinical trials can be novelty-destroying
We review the decision in Mylan Health Pty Ltd v Sun Pharma ANZ Pty Ltd which may have far-reaching implications for pharmaceutical patent holders or applicants in Australia.
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Pharmacoeconomics and patent practice in Australia
While Australia remains an attractive destination for patentees, a careful patent strategy is required to negotiate its complex regulatory, demographic and socioeconomic environment.
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Griffith Hack announces the elevation of two team members to principal
Griffith Hack is thrilled to formally announce the elevation of Gavin Adkins and Robyn Heard to principal.
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Simple steps to better IP portfolio management
Continuous portfolio management is a crucial plank of best practice intellectual asset management.
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CRISPR-Cas9 Update: Collision of Trends in IP and Life Sciences
CRISPR-Cas9 genome editing may not just be the greatest scientific breakthrough of this century, but also provides many lessons on patenting life science technologies.
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