IP Australia introduces new streamlined extension of time requests in response to COVID-19 disruptions

In response to the current COVID-19 pandemic and its impact on businesses operating in Australia, IP Australia has introduced a streamlined extension of time request process to assist customers who have been adversely impacted by COVID-19. 

Up until at least 31 May 2020 rights holders and applicants can apply for extensions of time for up to three months. For elible requests, IP Australia will waive the normal official extension of time fees. Importantly, the streamlined process also means that COVID-19 extensions can be requested without the need for an individualised supporting declaration, cutting costs for Australian businesses.   

Streamlined extension of time requests and official fee waivers do not apply to all extensions of time available through IP Australia. If you have a pending application with an impending deadline, please get in touch with one of our specialist Intellectual Property team members and we can discuss your specific circumstances and whether a COVID-19 extension is available.

Further updates

We will provide further updates on IP Australia’s response to COVID-19 as they come to hand.

Many thanks to Alison Walshe for her support in putting this update together.

This publication covers legal and technical issues in a general way. It is not designed to express opinions on specific cases. It is intended for information purposes only and should not be regarded as legal advice. Further advice should be obtained before taking action on any issue dealt with in this publication.