Your brand name, logo, and slogan are valuable business assets—but without protection, anyone can use them. That’s where the trademark register comes in. Managed by IP Australia, the trademark register is the official record of all registered trademarks in the country, giving you exclusive legal rights to your brand identity.

This guide explains everything you need to know about how the trademark register works, how to search it, and how to register your own trademark in Australia.

What Is the Trademark Register?

The Australian Trademark Register is a public database managed by IP Australia, listing all trademarks that have been applied for or registered in Australia. Each entry includes details such as:

  • The trademarked name, phrase, logo, or design
  • The trademark owner
  • The date of registration
  • The status (registered, pending, expired, removed)
  • The class(es) of goods or services it covers

By registering your trademark, you gain exclusive legal rights to use the mark for the registered goods or services—and prevent others from using similar marks.

Why Register a Trademark?

Many business owners assume that registering a business name or domain name is enough to protect their brand. Unfortunately, this is not the case. Only a registered trademark offers true legal protection.

Benefits of registering a trademark:

  • Exclusive use: Prevent others from using the same or similar name/logo
  • Legal protection: Take legal action for infringement
  • Asset value: Increase brand value and potential resale or licensing
  • National coverage: Australia-wide legal protection
  • Global leverage: Easier to apply for international protection under the Madrid Protocol

How to Search the Trademark Register

Before applying, it’s crucial to search the trademark register to ensure your proposed name, logo, or phrase isn’t already registered or too similar to another existing mark.

You can search trademarks using the Australian Trade Mark Search Tool at IP Australia’s website.

Tips when searching:

  • Search for exact names and similar variants
  • Check phonetic spellings or misspellings
  • Explore different trademark classes relevant to your industry

Trademark Classes Explained

Every trademark is registered under one or more trademark classes. There are 45 classes in total—34 for goods and 11 for services. You must select the class(es) that align with your business activities when you apply.

Examples:

  • Class 25: Clothing, footwear, headgear
  • Class 35: Advertising, marketing, business management
  • Class 41: Education, training, entertainment

Choosing the right class is critical, as your trademark protection only applies to those areas.

How to Register a Trademark in Australia

Registering a trademark involves a formal application through IP Australia. The process typically includes the following steps:

  1. Search: Use the trademark register to ensure your mark is unique
  2. Apply: Submit your application online, selecting the relevant classes
  3. Examination: IP Australia reviews your application (can take 3–4 months)
  4. Publication: Your trademark is published for public opposition (2 months)
  5. Registration: If unopposed, your mark is registered for 10 years

Cost: As of 2025, application fees start from $250 per class using IP Australia’s PickList. Fees vary based on complexity and the number of classes selected.

How Long Does a Trademark Last?

A registered trademark in Australia lasts for 10 years from the date of filing. It can be renewed indefinitely for successive 10-year periods by paying the renewal fee.

As long as you continue using and renewing it, your trademark can become one of your most valuable business assets.

What Can Be Trademarked?

According to IP Australia, a trademark can be any sign used to distinguish your goods or services from those of others. This can include:

  • Business names
  • Logos and symbols
  • Taglines or phrases
  • Sounds or jingles
  • Shapes, colours, packaging (in some cases)

Keep in mind: a business name alone does not offer any exclusive legal rights unless it is trademarked.

Register your business name today—but protect it with a trademark for full brand security.

Trademark Register vs Business Name Register

These two registers serve very different purposes:

  • Business Name Register: Managed by ASIC. Required to legally trade under a name.
  • Trademark Register: Managed by IP Australia. Gives exclusive legal rights to use the name/logo in certain industries.

Important: Registering a business name does not give you trademark rights. For full protection, you need both.

Start your company and secure your brand in one place.

Final Thoughts: Use the Trademark Register to Protect Your Brand

The trademark register is a critical tool for safeguarding your business identity. Whether you’re building a startup, expanding a brand, or launching a new product, registering a trademark gives you exclusive rights that business name registration alone can’t offer.

While the process can be technical, the protection is powerful. Don’t leave your brand vulnerable—get the right advice and register early.

Need help? While Taxopia doesn’t file trademarks directly, our team can help you prepare your business structure and registrations so your trademark filing is fully supported and compliant.