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As a business in Australia, one of your most important considerations is how you will protect your intellectual property (IP). IP refers to the intangible assets of your business, such as your logo, slogan or even a signature scent! In today’s dynamic 2025 marketplace, ensuring your IP is safeguarded is crucial to maintaining your competitive edge. For further insights, check out our IP Health Check article.
So, the best way to secure your brand in a highly competitive market is to register a trade mark for your brand with IP Australia. The registration process has become even more streamlined in 2025, making it easier than ever to protect what makes your business unique.
However, sometimes, you may need to renew your trade mark if you wish to continue enjoying legal protection. In this article, we’ll explain what trade marks are, outline the renewal process, and guide you on where to find the right legal help.
How Long Does Trade Mark Registration Last?
Generally, trade marks are protected for 10 years from the filing date. In 2025, you can renew your trade mark as early as 12 months before it expires and up to 6 months after the renewal due date. Please note that additional fees may apply if you renew late, and if the fee is not paid within the 6-month grace period, your trade mark will be removed from the register and lose its protection.
How Do I Renew My Trade Mark?
If your trade mark registration is nearing its 10-year mark and you want to continue using it, you’ll need to renew it with IP Australia. The process involves a few key steps which we’ll cover below.
Update Trade Mark Details
Before initiating the renewal process, ensure that all your business details registered with IP Australia are correct and up to date. This is important because IP Australia relies on these details to communicate any updates or issues regarding your renewal application.
Regularly reviewing and updating your records can help you avoid delays or complications in the renewal process. It’s a simple step that can save you time and prevent potential legal headaches down the track.
Check Your Trade Mark’s Classes
When you first register your trade mark, you do so under one or more of the 45 trademark classes in Australia. Over time, your business may evolve, and your classification needs might change. In 2025, it’s wise to review your trade mark classes carefully before renewal.
If your business focus has shifted, you may wish to remove certain classes from your registration, as you cannot add new classes upon renewal. For more details on aligning your trade mark with your current business activities, have a look at our Intellectual Property Guide.
Pay The Renewal Fee
Finally, you need to pay the appropriate fee for renewing your trade mark. It’s important to review the latest fee schedule on IP Australia’s website, as costs may be updated to reflect current economic conditions in 2025. You can find a comprehensive list of the relevant costs here.
If you do not pay the renewal fee within the 6-month grace period following the due date, your trade mark will be removed from the register and will no longer be protected, necessitating a fresh registration should you wish to reclaim your rights.
In the fast-paced business environment of 2025, staying updated with the latest IP regulations is more critical than ever. Regular reviews of your trade mark’s status, along with periodic consultations with an IP expert, can ensure that your brand remains fully protected. Remember, a trade mark is distinct from other forms of IP such as copyright – for an in-depth comparison, our article on Trade Mark vs Copyright offers valuable insights.
Who Can Help Me Renew My Trade Mark?
Renewing a trade mark involves following a specific process with IP Australia. At Sprintlaw, we offer a Trade Mark Renewal package, where our experienced lawyers guide you through each step to ensure your registration remains secure.
Our package includes:
- A renewal of one trade mark in one class
- Phone consultations with a Sprintlaw lawyer to address your legal queries and ensure all your details are spot on
If you’d like to discuss your options further, please don’t hesitate to call us on 1800 730 617 or email team@sprintlaw.com.au for a free, no-obligations chat. Our team is here to help you navigate the complexities of IP law in 2025 and beyond.
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