In an earlier circular, we flagged a joint announcement by the Australian and New Zealand patent offices to move towards integration of some functions.
There has now been a further announcement (linked below) setting out a 3-year timetable for a 3-stage roll out.
In brief, the intention is to:
• begin work sharing between the 2 patent offices in 2012,
• create a single application process for both countries in 2013, and finally
• create a single examination process for both countries in 2014.
We will, of course, keep you informed as this moves forward.
http://www.ipaustralia.gov.au/resources/sem_process.shtml
Regards, Bill
PIZZEYS
bbennett@pizzeys.com.au
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