Australia’s patent system allows certain patents relating to pharmaceutical substances to have their term extended by up to five years. Australia’s Productivity Commission issued a draft report recommending reform of the extension of patent term system, and is expected to release its final report in September. The controversial Trans Pacific Partnership Agreement has also highlighted issues related to patent term extensions and data exclusivity in Australia, New Zealand and other TPP members.

Recently, there have been a number of decisions from the Patent Office which have clarified Australia’s extension of term provisions, and which are relevant to the pharmaceutical industry, including originating manufacturers and generics.

At this seminar, the presenters will cover:

• recent developments and changes in the patent term extension criteria
• eligibility requirements
• what you need to apply for an extension of term
• patent term extensions in other jurisdictions.

About the presenters:

Dr Annabella Newton

Annabella is a registered patent and trade marks attorney specialising in chemical sciences. Annabella is particularly interested in the strategic role of intellectual property  in the commercialisation process and works with a range of clients including global corporations, SMEs, start-ups and individuals.

David Tadgell

As a registered patent and trade marks attorney and Partner of Phillips Ormonde Fitzpatrick, David’s practice involves patent drafting, prosecution and pharmaceutical extension of term and opposition work. He specialises in pharmaceuticals, drug delivery, mineral processing and other chemical related patents.