Intellectual property a hot topic for exporters

The Southern Queensland Innovation in Export Hub (SQ Export Hub), initiated and delivered by TSBE, has listened to local exporters and facilitated the Hub’s first in-person workshop for 2020.

Identifying local exporters needs, the workshop focused on key clauses to consider in supplier and distribution agreements and intellectual property.

These two aspects are considered areas of development for our local businesses to go global and protect their business; product designs and products which in turn creates and protects employment in Southern Queensland.

SQ Export Hub Export Manager, Helen Bates, said “it’s an important consideration for all agribusiness and energy resource plant breeders, manufacturers and technology companies to ensure they have appropriate risk mitigation in place.”

With expertise provided by McCullough Robertson and Austrade, attendees were able to engage in robust conversation and leverage off experiences to enhance their knowledge and understanding.

From the shared learnings and expertise provided, attendees were also able to learn more about support available by the Federal Government.

Federal Government Agency, IP Australia, administers intellectual property (IP) rights and legislation relating to patents, trademarks, designs and plant breeder’s rights.

Janelle Casey, Queensland State Director, Austrade, was able to share a case study during the workshop, emphasising the importance to understand the difference between the various types of intellectual property. 

Janelle also recommended that businesses check that contracts are enforceable in overseas jurisdictions, including non-disclosure agreements, and to always do due diligence on potential partners before signing.

The next public SQ Export Hub workshop will be on 17 September focusing on export market development grants and funding options for exporters.

For more information and to keep up to date, go to www.sqexporthub.com.au or www.tsbe.com.au.