These Regulations set the practical administrative rules for applying for, registering, maintaining and challenging design rights under the Designs Act 2003. They govern filing content and formalities, fees and payment consequences, strict time limits, evidence and language requirements, and procedural/appeal routes. Applicants, owners, third parties and agents must follow these steps and pay prescribed fees; the Registrar gains significant operational discretion balanced by procedural safeguards—making compliance, timing and costs central to preserving design rights.
These Regulations set out procedural, documentary, timing and fee rules that operationalise the Designs Act 2003 (the Act). They prescribe what an applicant must file for a design application to have a filing date (reg 3.01, reg 3.05), the formalities the Registrar will check (regs 4.04, 4.05), what must be published in the Official Journal (reg 3.04, reg 4.08(2), reg 5.06(2)), and the mechanics for amendment, withdrawal, lapsing, examination, renewal, surrender and revocation of design registrations (Parts 3.2-5 and regs 3.09, 3.13, 3.14, 5.03-5.07, 4.09-4.11). They also specify fees and the consequences of non‑payment (Part 11.2, regs 11.01-11.12 and Schedule 4), the Registrar’s delegation and hearing procedures (regs 10.01, 11.22-11.24), requirements for documents and translations (reg 11.18), service and address rules (reg 11.19), and a host of transitional and amendment application rules for earlier regimes and for instruments that amended these Regulations (Chapter 12, regs 12.01-12.12).
Mechanically, the Regulations do the following things that will change how interested parties act and plan:
Define the minimum filing requirements that create a filing date: identification of the matter as a design application, establishment and contact details of the applicant, and a representation of each design (reg 3.01; reg 3.05).
Prescribe time limits for claiming priority from a basic application (reg 3.06), for claiming priority for excluded designs (reg 3.08), and for lodging requests for registration, examination and renewal (regs 4.01, 5.01, 4.09).
Require specific formalities checks, including that representations be reproducible and specimens mountable on A4 without damaging other documents, and that applications not contain scandalous matter (regs 4.04(1)(e)-(f), 4.05(1)(e)-(g)).
Current sections
Direct links to the current provisions in Designs Regulations 2004.
112
1.01
Name of Regulations
1.01 Name of Regulations
These Regulations are the Designs Regulations 2004.
1.04
Interpretation
1.04 Interpretation
(1) In these Regulations:
Act means the Designs Act 2003.
approved form, in relation to a provision of these Regulations, means a form approved in an instrument under subregulation (1A) for the purposes of that provision.
basic application has the meaning given by subregulation 3.06(1).
designer has the same meaning as in paragraph 13(1)(a) of the Act.
excluded design has the same meaning as in section 23 of the Act.
expedited dispatch means a means of supplying documents that can reasonably be expected usually to be faster than ordinary post.
further design means a design that is disclosed in a design application, but that has not been identified, by the applicant, as being a separate design disclosed in the application.
initial application has the same meaning as in section 23 of the Act.
Official Journal means the Official Journal of Designs periodically published by the Registrar.
old Act means the Designs Act 1906.
old Regulations means the Designs Regulations 1982.
transitional application has the meaning given by subregulation 12.03(6).
(1A) The Registrar may, in writing, approve a form for the purposes of a provision of these Regulations.
(2) For these Regulations, a document is taken to be in the approved form if it contains all the information that the form requires.
(3) A reference in these Regulations to:
(a) the giving of a notice or other document to the Registrar; or
(b) the making of a request or an application to the Registrar;
includes a reference to the filing of the notice, document, request or application.
1.05
Convention country
1.05 Convention country
For the definition of Convention country in subsection 5A(1) of the Act, the following countries are prescribed:
(a) a foreign country that is a signatory to the Paris Convention for the Protection of Industrial Property of 20 March 1883, as in force from time to time;
(b) a foreign country that is a full member of the World Trade Organization.
Note 1: For signatories to the Paris Convention for the Protection of Industrial Property, see www.wipo.int.
Note 2: For full members of the World Trade Organization, see www.wto.org.
1.06
Giving of documents by Registrar
1.06 Giving of documents by Registrar
(1) For these Regulations, the Registrar may give a document to a person by:
(a) making the document available to the person in an electronic form; and
(b) notifying the person that the document is available.
(2) If the Registrar gives a document to a person, the document is taken to have been given to the person on the day the document is dated by the Registrar.
Chapter 3—Design applications
Part 3.2
—Applications
Part 3.2—Applications
3.01
Minimum filing requirements
3.01 Minimum filing requirements
For subsection 21(2) of the Act, each of the following requirements is prescribed:
(a) the application must include information that indicates that what is filed is intended to be a design application;
(b) the application must include information that:
(i) allows the identity of the applicant to be established; and
(ii) allows the applicant to be contacted;
(c) the application must include a representation, or information that appears to be a representation, of each design.
3.02
Applications covering excluded designs
3.02 Applications covering excluded designs
For subsection 23(2) of the Act, the prescribed period:
(a) begins immediately after the Registrar has received the request to amend the initial application under section 28 of the Act to exclude the excluded design or designs; and
(b) ends immediately before the earlier of:
(i) the lapse or withdrawal of the initial application; and
(ii) the registration of a design disclosed in the initial application.
3.04
Publication of receipt of application
3.04 Publication of receipt of application
(1) For section 25 of the Act, the details prescribed in relation to each design application that meets the minimum filing requirements are the following details for each design disclosed in the application:
(a) the design number;
(b) the name of the applicant or the entitled person;
(c) the filing date of the application;
(d) if applicable:
(i) details about any basic application made in respect of the design; and
(ii) the design number that was allocated to the excluded design in the initial application;
(e) if stated in the application—the product or products to which the design relates.
Note: For a design application in respect of a design excluded from certain transitional applications, see also regulation 12.03.
(2) The Registrar must publish the details in the Official Journal.
3.05
Filing date
3.05 Filing date
For section 26 of the Act, the filing date of a design application is the day when the application meets the minimum filing requirements.
Note: For the filing date of a converted application, see section 160 of the Act.
3.06
Priority date—designs disclosed in basic applications
3.06 Priority date—designs disclosed in basic applications
(1) In this regulation:
basic application, in respect of a design, means an application for protection of the design, being an application that is made in a Convention country in accordance with these Regulations.
(2) For the purposes of paragraph 27(1)(b) of the Act, if the design application is filed within 6 months after the date on which the basic application was made, the prescribed date is the day when the basic application was made.
(3) If a copy of the basic application is not filed within 2 months after the Registrar has made a request (if any) for a copy, subregulation (2) is taken not to apply to the design.
Note: Under regulation 11.18, a document that is not in English must be accompanied by a verified translation.
(4) For paragraph 27(1)(b) of the Act, if subregulation (2) does not apply to the design, the prescribed date is the filing date of the design application.
(5) If 2 or more basic applications have been made in 1 or more Convention countries, a reference to the basic application in subregulation (2) is taken to be a reference to the earlier or earliest of those applications.
Note: Certain applications are to be disregarded for the purpose of this regulation—see regulation 3.07.
(6) For subregulation (1), an application for protection in respect of a design is made in a Convention country:
(a) if:
(i) an application for protection in respect of the design has been made under the Hague Agreement Concerning the International Deposit of Industrial Designs, done at The Hague on 6 November 1925; and
(ii) the application sought protection in the Convention country; or
(b) if:
(i) an application for protection in respect of the design has been made under the Benelux Designs Convention, done at Brussels on 25 October 1966 (the Benelux Convention); and
(ii) the Convention country is a State (however described) that has consented to be bound by the Benelux Convention and for which the Benelux Convention is in force; or
(c) if:
(i) an application for protection in respect of the design has been made under the terms of the Treaty Establishing the European Community, done at Rome on 25 March 1957; and
(ii) the Convention country is a State (however described) that has consented to be bound by the Treaty and for which the Treaty is in force.
Note: For the priority date of a converted application, see section 160 of the Act.
3.07
Certain basic applications to be disregarded
3.07 Certain basic applications to be disregarded
(1) This regulation applies if:
(a) an application for protection in respect of a design has been made in a Convention country in accordance with these Regulations; and
(b) the application has been withdrawn, abandoned or refused without becoming open to public inspection; and
(c) the application has not been used as the basis for claiming a right of priority in a Convention country under the law of that country corresponding to regulation 3.06; and
(d) a later application for protection in respect of the design has been made by the same applicant in the Convention country in which the earlier application was made.
(2) The applicant may request the Registrar to disregard the earlier application for the purpose of identifying the basic application referred to in subregulation 3.06(2).
(3) If the applicant makes a request under subregulation (2):
(a) the Registrar must disregard the earlier application for that purpose; and
(b) neither the applicant nor any other person is capable of making use of the earlier application for that purpose.
3.08
Priority date—excluded designs
3.08 Priority date—excluded designs
For paragraph 27(1)(c) of the Act, the priority date of a design that is an excluded design is the same priority date as it had under the initial application.
Note: This regulation also applies to a design excluded from certain transitional applications, see regulation 12.03.
Part 3.3
—Amendment or withdrawal of applications
Part 3.3—Amendment or withdrawal of applications
3.09
Request for amendment of application
3.09 Request for amendment of application
(1) For subsection 28(2) of the Act, the request must:
(a) be in writing; and
(b) be clear that an amendment of a design application is being requested; and
(c) set out the nature and extent of the proposed amendments; and
(d) be accompanied by:
(i) a substitute document or representation incorporating the proposed amendments; or
(ii) a statement setting out the proposed amendments and the place at which each amendment is proposed to be made.
(2) If the request is not accompanied by a substitute document or representation incorporating the proposed amendments, the applicant must, if directed by the Registrar, file a substitute document or representation within the time allowed by the Registrar.
3.10
Disputes between applicants—requests for determinations
3.10 Disputes between applicants—requests for determinations
For subsection 29(2) of the Act, a request must:
(a) be made in the approved form; and
(b) include a statement of the grounds on which the request is made.
3.11
Requests for direction specifying persons as applicants or entitled persons
3.11 Requests for direction specifying persons as applicants or entitled persons
For subsection 30(4) of the Act, a request must:
(a) be made in the approved form; and
(b) include a statement of the grounds on which the request is made.
3.12
Publication of certain details of amended applications
3.12 Publication of certain details of amended applications
(1) This regulation applies in relation to a design application if, as a result of the design application having been amended under Part 3 of Chapter 3 of the Act, any of the details published under section 25 of the Act in relation to the application has changed.
(2) For section 31 of the Act, the details prescribed are the following details for each design in relation to which the published details has changed:
(a) the design number;
(b) for each detail that has changed—the detail as amended.
3.13
Withdrawal of designs and design applications
3.13 Withdrawal of designs and design applications
(1) For subsection 32(1) of the Act, the prescribed period:
(a) begins immediately after the design application is filed; and
(b) ends immediately before a design disclosed in the design application is registered.
(2) For subsection 32(2) of the Act, the prescribed period:
(a) begins immediately after the design application is filed; and
(b) ends immediately before the design to be withdrawn is registered.
(3) If a design is withdrawn, including a design disclosed in a design application that is withdrawn, the Registrar must publish the design number in the Official Journal.
Part 3.4
—Lapsing of applications
Part 3.4—Lapsing of applications
3.14
Period within which application lapses
3.14 Period within which application lapses
For the purposes of subsection 33(1) of the Act, the prescribed period is 2 months from the date of the first notification given by the Registrar under section 41 of the Act in relation to the design or designs in respect of which registration is requested.
3.15
Notice of lapsing of design application
3.15 Notice of lapsing of design application
For subsection 33(4) of the Act, the notice must:
(a) be published in the Official Journal; and
(b) include the design number for each design disclosed in the application that has not been registered.
Chapter 4—Registration of designs
Part 4.2
—Requests for registration
Part 4.2—Requests for registration
4.01
Requests for registration
4.01 Requests for registration
(2) For paragraph 35(2)(b) of the Act, the prescribed period is:
(a) 6 months from the priority date of the design; or
(b) if the design is a design mentioned in section 55 of the Act, and the period of 6 months has expired when an application is filed as mentioned in that section—the day when the application is filed.
(3) For subsection 35(3) of the Act, the request must be made in the approved form.
Part 4.3
—Registration
Part 4.3—Registration
4.04
Formalities check—applications in respect of 1 design only
4.04 Formalities check—applications in respect of 1 design only
(1) For paragraph 39(2)(a) of the Act, the formalities check is confirmation, by the Registrar, that:
(a) the design application is in the approved form; and
(aa) the design application does not contain any scandalous matter or matter that might reasonably be taken to be scandalous; and
(b) the design application meets the requirements of regulation 11.18; and
(c) the design application identifies the product or products in relation to which the design is sought to be registered sufficiently to enable each product to be classified in accordance with the Locarno Agreement; and
(d) for a design application mentioned in subsection 23(2) of the Act—the design application identifies the design number that was allocated to the excluded design in the initial application; and
(e) if a specimen is filed as a representation of the design—the specimen is of a kind that:
(i) can be readily mounted in a flat position by affixing it to a paper of international sheet size A4; and
(ii) can be stored without damage to other documents; and
(iii) when mounted, is presented in a way that allows any number of copies of the specimen to be reproduced directly by photocopying, digital scanning, microfilming and photography; and
(f) the design application includes at least one representation of the design.
Note: For a design application in respect of a design excluded from certain transitional applications, see also regulation 12.03.
(2) If the Registrar is not satisfied with the matter mentioned in paragraph (1)(e), the Registrar may, in giving a notification under section 41 of the Act, require the applicant to file another representation that complies with the paragraph.
4.05
Formalities check—applications in respect of more than 1 design
4.05 Formalities check—applications in respect of more than 1 design
(1) For paragraph 40(2)(c) of the Act, the formalities check is confirmation, by the Registrar, that:
(a) the design application is in the approved form; and
(aa) the design application does not contain any scandalous matter or matter that might reasonably be taken to be scandalous; and
(b) the design application meets the requirements of regulation 11.18; and
(c) the design application identifies, for each design, the product or products in relation to which the design is sought to be registered sufficiently to enable each product to be classified in accordance with the Locarno Agreement; and
(d) for a design application mentioned in subsection 23(2) of the Act—the design application identifies the design number that was allocated to the excluded design in the initial application; and
(e) if a specimen is filed as a representation of a design—the specimen is of a kind that:
(i) can be readily mounted in a flat position by affixing it to a paper of international sheet size A4; and
(ii) can be stored without damage to other documents; and
(iii) when mounted, is presented in a way that allows any number of copies of the specimen to be reproduced directly by photocopying, digital scanning, microfilming and photography; and
(f) the design application includes at least one representation of each design disclosed in the application; and
(g) the number of designs disclosed in the design application is the number of designs identified, by the applicant, as being separate designs disclosed in the application.
Note: For a design application in respect of a design excluded from certain transitional applications, see also regulation 12.03.
(2) If the applicant has requested registration of some, but not all, of the designs disclosed in the design application, the formalities check is confirmation, by the Registrar, that the matters specified in subregulation (1) are satisfied in relation to the part or parts of the application relating to the design or designs covered by the request.
(3) If the Registrar is not satisfied with the matter mentioned in paragraph (1)(e), the Registrar may, in giving a notification under section 41 of the Act, require the applicant to file another representation that complies with the paragraph.
4.06
Registrar must refuse to register certain designs
4.06 Registrar must refuse to register certain designs
For paragraph 43(1)(a) of the Act, the following classes of designs are prescribed:
(a) medals;
(b) designs of a kind that the Registrar must, under subregulation 2(4) of the Protection of Word ‘Anzac’ Regulations, refuse to register;
(c) designs of a kind mentioned in subsection 19(1) of the Crimes (Currency) Act 1981;
(d) designs that are scandalous, or might reasonably be taken to be scandalous;
(e) the Arms, or a flag or seal, of the Commonwealth or of a State or Territory;
(f) the Arms or emblems of:
(i) a State or Territory; or
(ii) a city or town in the Commonwealth; or
(iii) a public authority or public institution in Australia;
(g) the armorial bearings, flags, State emblems or other signs of another country.
4.07
Period within which Registrar must register certain designs after refusal
4.07 Period within which Registrar must register certain designs after refusal
For section 44 of the Act, the prescribed period is 1 month from the date on which the Registrar was notified of the revocation of the order.
Note: A similar arrangement is made in regulation 8.02.
4.08
Certificate of registration and notice of registration
4.08 Certificate of registration and notice of registration
(1) For subsection 45(3) of the Act, the certificate must include the following details in relation to the design:
(a) the registration number;
(b) the filing date of the design application first disclosing the design;
(c) the initial term of the registration;
(d) the name and address of the registered owner;
(e) the product or products to which the design relates;
(f) the name of the designer;
(g) if a statement of newness and distinctiveness has been provided to the Registrar—that statement;
(h) if applicable:
(i) details about any basic application made in respect of the design; and
(ii) the design number that was allocated to the excluded design in the initial application.
Note 1: A statement of newness and distinctiveness is described in paragraph 19(2)(b) of the Act.
Note 2: For a design application in respect of a design excluded from certain transitional applications, see also regulation 12.03.
(2) For subsection 45(4) of the Act, the notice must:
(a) be published in the Official Journal; and
(b) include the following details in relation to the design:
(i) the design number;
(ii) the registration number;
(iii) the date on which the design was registered;
(iv) the filing date of the design application first disclosing the design;
(v) if applicable:
(A) details about any basic application made in respect of the design; and
(B) the design number that was allocated to the excluded design in the initial application;
(vi) the product or products to which the design relates;
(vii) the Locarno Agreement classification of the product or each product;
(viii) if a statement of newness and distinctiveness has been provided to the Registrar—that statement;
(ix) the name and address of the registered owner;
(x) the name of the designer.
Note 1: A statement of newness and distinctiveness is described in paragraph 19(2)(b) of the Act.
Note 2: For a design application in respect of a design excluded from certain transitional applications, see also regulation 12.03.
4.09
Renewal of registration
4.09 Renewal of registration
(1) For subsection 47(2) of the Act, the prescribed period is the period of 5 years and 6 months that begins at the start of the term of registration of the design.
Note: If a renewal fee is paid after 5 years, it will attract the fee set out in paragraph (b) of column 3 of item 5 of Schedule 4.
(2) For subsection 47(3) of the Act, the application must:
(a) be clear that renewal of the registration of the design is being requested; and
(b) include the registration number of the design; and
(c) be accompanied by the fee set out in item 5 of Schedule 4.
4.10
Surrender of registration
4.10 Surrender of registration
For paragraph 49(3)(c) of the Act, the offer must include:
(a) a statement that an offer is made to surrender the registration of the design; and
(b) the registration number of the design.
Note: Under subsection 49(2) of the Act, if there is more than 1 registered owner, the offer must be made by all the registered owners.
4.11
Revocation of registration on surrender
4.11 Revocation of registration on surrender
(1) For paragraph 50(2)(a) of the Act, each other person who is entered on the Register as having an interest in the design is prescribed.
(2) For paragraph 50(2)(b) of the Act, a person mentioned in subregulation (1) may make a submission:
(a) in writing; and
(b) within 1 month after the date of the notice under paragraph 50(2)(a) of the Act.
(3) The Registrar must also publish, in the Official Journal, a notice of the offer received under section 49 of the Act.
(4) If an interested person wishes to be heard in relation to the offer, he or she must, within 1 month after the date of publication of the notice mentioned in subregulation (3), give notice to the Registrar of his or her wish to be heard.
(5) The Registrar may, as a preliminary issue, hear and determine the question whether a person is an interested person.
(6) If an interested person gives notice to the Registrar under subregulation (4), the Registrar must give the person an opportunity to be heard before exercising his or her powers under subsection 50(3) of the Act.
4.12
Revocation of registration on grounds relating to entitled persons
4.12 Revocation of registration on grounds relating to entitled persons
For subsection 51(2) of the Act, the application must:
(a) be made in the approved form; and
(b) include a statement of the grounds on which the application is made.
4.13
Notice of revocation of registration
4.13 Notice of revocation of registration
For subsection 52(4) of the Act, the notice must:
(a) be published in the Official Journal; and
(b) include the registration number of the design.
4.14
Applications by entitled persons after revocation following surrender of registration
4.14 Applications by entitled persons after revocation following surrender of registration
For paragraph 54(1)(b) of the Act, an application must be in writing.
Chapter 5—Examination of designs
5.01
Requirements for request for examination of design
5.01 Requirements for request for examination of design
For subsection 64(1) of the Act, the following requirements are prescribed:
(a) the request must be made in the approved form;
(b) if the request is made by a person other than the registered owner, and contains any material in relation to the newness and distinctiveness of the design—the material must be provided in duplicate.
5.02
Grounds for revocation of registration of design
5.02 Grounds for revocation of registration of design
For paragraph 65(2)(b) of the Act, a prescribed ground is that, under section 43 of the Act, the design should not have been registered.
5.03
Examination of design—procedures
5.03 Examination of design—procedures
(1) For paragraph 65(3)(a) of the Act, the procedures set out in this regulation are prescribed for the conduct of an examination of a design.
(2) If, after considering under subsection 65(1) of the Act whether a ground for revocation under subsection 65(2) of the Act exists, the Registrar is satisfied that a ground for revocation has been made out, the Registrar must notify the registered owner as required under subsection 66(2) of the Act.
Note: See section 67 of the Act for what is to happen if the Registrar is satisfied that a ground for revocation has not been made out.
(3) A registered owner may respond to a notification given under subsection 66(2) of the Act (including a further notification mentioned in subregulation (6)) by:
(a) contesting, in writing, the ground for revocation; or
(b) requesting amendment of the Register as provided under subsection 66(3) of the Act.
(4) If the registered owner responds by contesting the ground in writing, the Registrar must reconsider whether a ground for revocation under subsection 65(2) of the Act exists, taking into account the written submissions made by the registered owner.
(5) If the registered owner responds by requesting amendment of the Register, the Registrar must consider whether the ground for revocation would be removed if the Register were amended as proposed in the request.
(6) If:
(a) after the reconsideration mentioned in subregulation (4), the Registrar remains satisfied that a ground for revocation has been made out; or
(b) after the consideration mentioned in subregulation (5), the Registrar is satisfied that the ground would not be removed if the Register were amended as proposed;
the Registrar must:
(c) give a further notification to the registered owner under subsection 66(2) of the Act; or
(d) give the registered owner a reasonable opportunity to be heard under paragraph 68(4)(a) of the Act.
(7) A further notification mentioned in subregulation (6) must, in addition to stating that a ground for revocation has been made out, include a statement to the following effect:
(a) if the registered owner has contested the ground in writing—that the Registrar has taken into account the written submissions made by the registered owner;
(b) if the registered owner has requested amendment of the Register—that the ground would not be removed if the Register were amended as proposed.
Note: See section 67 of the Act for what is to happen if the Registrar is satisfied that a ground for revocation has not been made out or that any such ground would be removed if the Register were amended as proposed.
(8) If the request for examination was made by a person other than the registered owner, the Registrar must give a copy of the notification given under subsection 66(2) of the Act (including a further notification mentioned in subregulation (6)) to the person who requested the examination.
Note: See section 68 of the Act for what is to happen if the Registrar remains satisfied that a ground for revocation has been made out and the ground would not be removed if the Register were amended as proposed.
5.04
Period in which examination of a design must be completed
5.04 Period in which examination of a design must be completed
For paragraph 65(3)(b) of the Act, the prescribed period is worked out as follows:
(a) if a notification is given under subsection 66(2) of the Act in relation to the examination, the prescribed period is 6 months after the date of the first notification;
(b) if:
(i) a person provides material under section 69 of the Act; and
(ii) the Registrar gives the registered owner a notification under subsection 66(2) of the Act of a ground of revocation, based on that material;
the prescribed period is whichever of the following periods ends later:
(iii) 6 months after the date of the first notification under subsection 66(2) of the Act in relation to the examination;
(iv) 3 months after the date of the notification under subsection 66(2) of the Act that first raises the ground of revocation;
(c) if:
(i) the Registrar discontinues the examination of the design in accordance with subsection 63(4) of the Act; or
(ii) if a hearing described in section 67 or 68 of the Act is requested; or
(iii) if an appeal is made to the Federal Court or the Federal Circuit and Family Court of Australia (Division 2) against a decision of the Registrar under section 67 or 68 of the Act;
the prescribed period is the period determined by the Registrar to allow the examination to be completed.
5.05
Amendment of registration
5.05 Amendment of registration
(1) For subsection 66(4) of the Act:
(a) the request must be in writing; and
(b) the request must make it clear that an amendment of the Register is being requested; and
(c) the request must set out the nature and extent of the proposed amendments; and
(d) the request must be accompanied by:
(i) a substitute document or representation incorporating the proposed amendments; or
(ii) a statement setting out the proposed amendments and the place at which each amendment is proposed to be made; and
(e) if:
(i) the request is not accompanied by a substitute document or representation incorporating the proposed amendments; and
(ii) the Registrar directs the registered owner under paragraph (2)(b) to file a substitute document;
the substitute document must have been filed in accordance with the direction.
(2) For subsection 66(5) of the Act:
(a) the Registrar must notify the registered owner if:
(i) the request does not meet the requirements mentioned in subregulation (1); or
(ii) the proposed amendment is of a kind prohibited under subsection 66(6) of the Act; and
(b) if the request is not accompanied by a substitute document or representation incorporating the proposed amendments, the Registrar may direct the registered owner to file a substitute document or representation within the time allowed by the Registrar.
5.06
Certificate of examination and notice of examination
5.06 Certificate of examination and notice of examination
(1) For paragraph 67(3)(a) of the Act, the certificate must include:
(a) the registration number of the design; and
(b) the date of certification.
(2) For paragraph 67(3)(c) of the Act, the notice must:
(a) be published in the Official Journal; and
(b) include the following details in relation to the design:
(i) the registration number;
(ii) the date of certification.
(3) In this regulation:
date of certification means the date on which the Registrar is satisfied that a certificate of examination is to be issued under subsection 67(3) of the Act in respect of the design.
5.07
Revocation of registration after examination
5.07 Revocation of registration after examination
For subsection 68(3) of the Act, the notice must:
(a) be published in the Official Journal; and
(b) include the following details in relation to the design:
(i) the registration number;
(ii) the date on which the design was revoked.
5.08
Material provided to Registrar
5.08 Material provided to Registrar
For subsection 69(2) of the Act, the material must:
(a) be provided in duplicate; and
(b) be accompanied by the approved form.
Note: Under regulation 11.18, a document that is not in English must be accompanied by a verified translation.
Chapter 7—Jurisdiction and powers of courts
7.01
Application to court for compulsory licence
7.01 Application to court for compulsory licence
For subsection 90(1) of the Act, the prescribed period is 3 years from the date of registration of the design.
7.02
Revocation of registration after grant of compulsory licence
7.02 Revocation of registration after grant of compulsory licence
For subsection 92(1) of the Act, the prescribed period is 2 years from the date on which the licence, or the first licence (if more than 1), was granted under section 90 of the Act in relation to the design.
Chapter 8—The Crown
8.01
Acquisition of design by the Commonwealth
8.01 Acquisition of design by the Commonwealth
For subsection 106(3) of the Act, notice of the acquisition must be published:
(a) in the Official Journal; and
(b) in the Gazette.
Note: The Commonwealth of Australia Gazette is available in hard copy and online.
8.02
Period within which designs must be registered after prohibition order revoked
8.02 Period within which designs must be registered after prohibition order revoked
For subsection 108(4) of the Act, the prescribed period is 1 month from the date on which the Registrar was made aware of the revocation of the order.
Note: A similar arrangement is made in regulation 4.07.
Chapter 9—The Register
9.01
Other particulars to be entered in the Register
9.01 Other particulars to be entered in the Register
For paragraph 111(2)(e) of the Act, the following particulars are prescribed:
(a) the address for service of the registered owner;
(b) the name of each other person who has an interest in the design;
(c) the designer’s name;
(d) if a statement of newness and distinctiveness was included in the application—that fact.
9.02
Inspection of Register
9.02 Inspection of Register
For subsection 113(1) of the Act, the prescribed times, in relation to the Designs Office or a sub‑office of the Designs office, are from 9 am to 5 pm on Monday to Friday other than a public holiday:
(a) in the place where the Designs Office or the sub‑office is located; or
(b) for the purposes of the Australian Public Service in that place.
9.03
Amendments of Register to record changes of ownership
9.03 Amendments of Register to record changes of ownership
(1) For subsection 114(3) of the Act, the prescribed period is 1 month from the date of the notification under paragraph 114(3)(a) of the Act.
(2) For subsection 114(4) of the Act, the request must:
(a) be made in the approved form; and
(b) be accompanied by satisfactory evidence of:
(i) the assignment of the interest in the design; or
(ii) the person’s interest in the design by devolution by will or by operation of law.
9.04
Notice specifying amendments to Register
9.04 Notice specifying amendments to Register
For paragraph 116(b) of the Act, the Registrar must publish a notice in the Official Journal.
9.05
Correction of Register
9.05 Correction of Register
(1) The Registrar may, of his or her own motion, amend an entry in the Register to correct a clerical error or an obvious mistake.
(2) The Registrar may, on request made in the approved form, amend an entry in the Register:
(a) to correct a clerical error or an obvious mistake; or
(b) if a name or an address entered in the Register has been changed—to change the name or address.
(3) If the Registrar proposes to amend an entry in the Register, the Registrar may notify the proposed amendment to a person who is entered in the Register as having an interest in the design.
(4) If a proposed amendment of an entry would materially alter the meaning or scope of the entry, the Registrar must publish, in the Official Journal, a notice of the request to amend the entry.
(5) A person may oppose the amendment by filing a notice of opposition, in an approved form, within one month from the publication of the notice under subregulation (4).
Note: For the circumstances in which an extension of time can be sought, see section 137 of the Act.
(6) The Registrar must give a copy of the notice of opposition to the person who requested the amendment as soon as practicable.
(7) If the amendment is not opposed, the Registrar must amend the entry as requested.
(8) If the amendment is opposed, the Registrar must amend the entry if the Registrar decides to do so, subject to a decision of a tribunal or prescribed court in relation to the opposition.
Chapter 10—Administration
10.01
Delegation by Registrar
10.01 Delegation by Registrar
(1) For subsection 124(1) of the Act, the prescribed classes of employees are:
(a) for any of the powers or functions of the Registrar under the Act (other than the powers or functions under paragraphs 127(1)(a) and (c) of the Act)—an employee employed at, or performing duties at, any of the following classifications:
(i) Executive Level 2;
(ii) Executive Level 1;
(iii) APS level 6;
(iv) APS level 5;
(v) APS level 4;
(vi) APS level 3;
(vii) APS level 2; and
Note: Under paragraphs 127(1)(a) and (c) of the Act, the Registrar may summon witnesses and require the production of documents or articles.
(b) for all or any of the powers or functions of the Registrar under the Olympic Insignia Protection Act 1987—an employee employed at, or performing the duties at, any of the following classifications:
(i) Executive Level 2;
(ii) Executive Level 1;
(iii) APS level 6.
Note: For the meaning of employee, see section 5 of the Act.
(2) The Registrar may delegate all or any of the Registrar’s powers or functions under paragraph 127(1)(a) or (c) of the Act to an employee of the Designs Office who holds or performs the duties of an Executive Level 1 position, or an equivalent or higher position.
10.02
Costs (Act s 127)
10.02 Costs (Act s 127)
(1) A party to proceedings before the Registrar may apply to the Registrar, in the approved form, for an award of costs in respect of the proceedings.
(2) The application must be made:
(a) during the proceedings; or
(b) within 3 months from:
(i) the day when the Registrar makes a decision that ends the proceedings; or
(ii) the date of the Registrar’s notification to the party that the proceedings have been discontinued.
(3) The Registrar may award costs only in respect of a matter mentioned in Schedule 3.
(4) Before awarding costs for an amount other than for an amount mentioned in Schedule 3 in respect of the proceedings, the Registrar must give each party to the proceedings a reasonable opportunity to be heard in relation to the award of costs.
(5) If a bill of costs is to be filed in relation to the proceedings, the bill must be filed within 3 months from the day when the costs are awarded.
(6) The amount of costs must be taxed, allowed and certified, in accordance with Schedule 3, by the Registrar.
(7) The Registrar may review the taxation of costs carried out by a delegate of the Registrar or a person authorised to act for the Registrar.
Chapter 11—Miscellaneous
Part 11.2
—Fees
Part 11.2—Fees
11.01
Fees payable
11.01 Fees payable
(1) For subsection 130(1) of the Act, the fee to be paid for a matter mentioned in an item in Schedule 4 is specified in the item.
(2) For subsection 130(3) of the Act, the fee mentioned in an item in Schedule 4 is payable as set out in this regulation.
Who pays
(3) A fee specified in an item is payable by the person (if any) who is specified in the item as the person by whom the fee is payable.
To whom is it payable
(4) The fee is payable to the Registrar.
When is it payable
(5) The fee is payable at the following time:
(a) if it is for filing an application, request or other document—when the application, request or other document is filed;
(b) if it is for appearing at a hearing:
(i) for the first day—immediately before the hearing; and
(ii) for each day or part of a day after the first day—immediately after the completion of the hearing.
Publication
(6) For the purposes of subsection 130A(3) of the Act, the Registrar must publish the notice in the Official Journal.
11.02
Failure to pay—fee for filing a design application
11.02 Failure to pay—fee for filing a design application
(1) This regulation applies if:
(a) the fee mentioned in item 1 in Schedule 4 is not paid on the day when it is payable; and
(b) within 1 month after that day, the Registrar invites the applicant to pay the fee within 2 months after the date of the invitation; and
(c) the fee is not paid within the 2 month period.
(2) The application lapses, or the registration of each design disclosed in the application that has been registered ceases, at the end of the 2 month period.
11.03
Failure to pay—fee for filing a request to amend a design application to identify further designs
11.03 Failure to pay—fee for filing a request to amend a design application to identify further designs
(1) This regulation applies if:
(a) the fee mentioned in item 2 in Schedule 4 is not paid on the day when it is payable; and
(b) within 1 month after the day the request is made, the Registrar invites the applicant to pay the fee within 7 days after the day of the invitation; and
(c) the fee is not paid within that 7‑day period.
(2) The request is taken not to have been filed.
11.04
Failure to pay—fee payable by the registered owner for filing a request for examination
11.04 Failure to pay—fee payable by the registered owner for filing a request for examination
(1) This regulation applies if:
(a) the fee mentioned in item 3 in Schedule 4 is not paid on the day when it is payable; and
(b) within 1 month after that day, the Registrar invites the registered owner to pay the fee within 2 months after the date of the invitation; and
(c) the fee is not paid within the 2 month period.
(2) The registration of the design ceases, at the end of the 2 month period.
11.05
Failure to pay—fee payable by the registered owner in relation to a request for examination filed by another person
11.05 Failure to pay—fee payable by the registered owner in relation to a request for examination filed by another person
(1) This regulation applies if:
(a) the fee mentioned in paragraph (b) in column 3 of item 4 in Schedule 4 is not paid on the day when it is payable; and
(b) within 1 month after the fee mentioned in paragraph (a) of item 4 in Schedule 4 is paid, the Registrar invites the registered owner to pay the fee within 2 months after the date of the invitation; and
(c) the fee is not paid within the 2 month period.
(2) The registration of the design ceases at the end of the 2 month period.
11.06
Failure to pay—certain other fees for filing
11.06 Failure to pay—certain other fees for filing
(1) This regulation applies if:
(a) the fee mentioned in:
(i) paragraph (a) in column 3 of item 4 in Schedule 4; or
(ii) item 7, 8 or 9 in Schedule 4;
is not paid on the day when it is payable; and
(b) within 1 month after the fee is payable, the Registrar invites the person who files the request, application or notice to pay the fee within 2 months after the date of the invitation; and
(c) the fee is not paid within the 2 month period.
(2) The request, application or notice is taken not to have been filed.
11.07
Failure to pay—fee for requesting a hearing
11.07 Failure to pay—fee for requesting a hearing
(1) This regulation applies if the fee mentioned in item 11 in Schedule 4 is not paid when it is payable.
(2) No hearing as requested is to be held until the fee has been paid.
(3) If:
(a) within 1 month after the fee is payable, the Registrar invites the person who files the request to pay the fee:
(i) within 2 months after the date of the invitation; or
(ii) if the date of the hearing occurs before the 2 months period—before the date of the hearing; and
(b) the fee is not paid in accordance with the Registrar’s invitation;
the request is taken not to have been filed.
11.08
Failure to pay—fee for appearing at a hearing
11.08 Failure to pay—fee for appearing at a hearing
If the fee mentioned in paragraph (a) in column 3 of item 12 in Schedule 4 is not paid when it is payable, a person cannot appear at the hearing.
11.09
Failure to pay—fees for requesting supply of documents by the Registrar
11.09 Failure to pay—fees for requesting supply of documents by the Registrar
(1) This regulation applies if the fee mentioned in item 13 or 14 in Schedule 4 is not paid when it is payable.
(2) The Registrar must not process the request until the fee has been paid.
(3) If:
(a) the Registrar invites the person who files the request to pay the fee within 2 months after the date of the invitation; and
(b) the fee is not paid within the 2 month period;
the request is taken not to have been filed.
11.09A Failure to pay—fees for requestin
11.09A Failure to pay—fees for requesting expedited dispatch
11.09A Failure to pay—fees for requesting expedited dispatch
(1) This regulation applies if a request for the supply of documents is filed as mentioned in item 13 or 14 of the table in clause 1 of Schedule 4.
(2) The Registrar must not supply the documents by means of expedited dispatch unless:
(a) a request that the supply be by means of expedited dispatch is filed; and
(b) the fee mentioned in item 15 of that table for filing the request for expedited dispatch is paid.
11.10
Consequences if Registrar does not invite payment
11.10 Consequences if Registrar does not invite payment
(1) This regulation applies if:
(a) the fee mentioned in item 1, 2, 3, 4, 7, 8 or 9 in Schedule 4 is not paid when it is payable; and
(b) the Registrar does not give the invitation mentioned in regulation 11.02, 11.03, 11.04, 11.05 or 11.06 within the time mentioned in that regulation for giving the invitation.
(2) The request, application or notice is to be treated as if the fee had been paid when it was payable.
11.11
Exemption from fees (Act s 149)
11.11 Exemption from fees (Act s 149)
The Registrar may exempt a person from the payment of the whole or any part of a fee, if the Registrar is satisfied on reasonable grounds that the action is justified having regard to all the circumstances.
11.12
Recovery of fees
11.12 Recovery of fees
A fee payable under these Regulations is recoverable as a debt due to the Commonwealth.
Part 11.5
—Extensions of time
Part 11.5—Extensions of time
11.13
Extensions of time for doing a relevant act
11.13 Extensions of time for doing a relevant act
(1) For subsection 137(2) of the Act, an application must:
(a) be made in the approved form; and
(b) be accompanied by a declaration setting out the grounds on which the application is made.
(1A) Subregulation (1B) applies if:
(a) an application for an extension of time for doing a relevant act is made under subsection 137(2) of the Act; and
(b) the relevant act has not been done; and
(c) a notice of opposition to the grant of the application is filed.
(1B) If the Registrar grants the application, the Registrar must extend the time to include the period from the day on which the notice of opposition is filed to the end of:
(a) if an application is made to the Administrative Review Tribunal for a review of a decision of the Registrar—the day when the application is withdrawn or finally dealt with or determined; or
(b) in any other case—21 days after the end of the day on which the Registrar decides the application.
(2) For subsection 137(4) of the Act, the Registrar must advertise an application in the Official Journal.
(3) For subsection 137(5) of the Act, the person must file a notice of opposition, in an approved form, within one month from the advertisement of the application.
(3A) The Registrar must give a copy of the notice of opposition to the person who applied for the extension as soon as practicable.
(4) If the Registrar grants an extension of time under section 137 of the Act, the Registrar must publish details of the extension in the Official Journal.
(5) For the purposes of the definition of relevant act in subsection 137(7) of the Act, a prescribed action is:
(a) withdrawing a design application under subsection 32(1) of the Act; or
(b) withdrawing a design under subsection 32(2) of the Act from a design application.
11.14
Consequence of extension—notice of restoration
11.14 Consequence of extension—notice of restoration
For paragraph 138(2)(b) of the Act, the Registrar must publish a notice in the Official Journal.
Part 11.6
—Other
Part 11.6—Other
11.15
Agents (Act s 141)
11.15 Agents (Act s 141)
(1) This regulation applies if a person (an agent) acts on behalf of another person (the principal).
(2) If the agent signs a document on behalf of the principal, the agent must note that fact (including the principal’s name) on the document.
(3) If the agent is not a legal practitioner, he or she must not do the following on behalf of the principal:
(a) prepare any document that is to be filed in, or issued from, a court;
(b) transact business, or conduct proceedings, in a court.
11.16
Right of lien of registered patent attorneys (Act s 142)
11.16 Right of lien of registered patent attorneys (Act s 142)
A registered patent attorney has, in relation to documents and property of a client in a matter relating to designs, the same right of lien that a solicitor has in relation to the documents and property of a client.
11.18
Documents to be in English
11.18 Documents to be in English
(1) An approved form being filed must be in English.
(2) Any other document being filed must:
(a) be in English; or
(b) if it is not in English—be accompanied by a translation of the document into English that has with it a certificate of verification.
(3) However, subregulation (2) does not apply to text that forms part of a design.
(4) In this regulation:
certificate of verification, in relation to a translation, means a statement, dated and signed by a person, to the effect that the translation is, to the best of the knowledge of the person, a true and complete translation of the accompanying document.
11.18A Publication of notices in the Off
11.18A Publication of notices in the Official Journal
11.18A Publication of notices in the Official Journal
For the purposes of subsections 144A(3), 144B(3), 144C(5) and 149A(2) of the Act, the Registrar must publish the notice in the Official Journal.
11.19
Service of documents
11.19 Service of documents
(1) If provision is made in an approved form to state an address for service, the person completing the form must state:
(a) an address in Australia or New Zealand at which a document under the Act or these Regulations may be given to him or her personally or to the person specified in the form as his or her representative; or
(b) an address in Australia to which it is practicable and reasonable for Australia Post, or a person acting on behalf of Australia Post, to deliver mail; or
(c) an address in New Zealand to which it is practicable and reasonable for a person providing mail delivery services to deliver mail.
(2) A person may file notice of a change of his or her address for service to another address that complies with paragraph (1)(a), (b) or (c).
(5) Service by post is a prescribed means by which a document may be served on, or given or sent to, a person for the purposes of subsection 145(1) of the Act.
11.21
Death of applicant or registered owner (Act s 146, s 147)
11.21 Death of applicant or registered owner (Act s 146, s 147)
(1) This regulation applies to:
(a) a legal representative who wishes to proceed with the application in accordance with section 146 of the Act; or
(b) a person who wishes to have the Register amended in accordance with section 147 of the Act.
(2) The legal representative or the person must file:
(a) a request in the approved form; and
(b) any other document that the Registrar reasonably considers to be necessary to support the request.
11.22
Exercise of discretionary powers by Registrar
11.22 Exercise of discretionary powers by Registrar
(1) The Registrar must give a person an opportunity to be heard before exercising a discretionary power under these Regulations adversely to the person.
Note: See section 148 of the Act for a similar provision.
(2) For section 148 of the Act and subregulation (1), the Registrar must give the person an opportunity to be heard by:
(a) asking the person for written submissions; or
(b) notifying the person that, on request to the Registrar, the person may be heard by way of an oral hearing on a date, and at a time and place, determined by the Registrar; or
(c) notifying the person of the date, time and place of an oral hearing.
(3) The Registrar may exercise the discretionary power if the person:
(a) notifies the Registrar that the person does not want to be heard; or
(b) does not file written submissions if requested under subregulation 11.23(1); or
(c) does not attend an oral hearing if notified under subregulation 11.23(2).
(4) If the Registrar exercises discretionary power in any of the circumstances mentioned in subregulation (3), the Registrar must notify the person of the Registrar’s decision.
11.23
Written submissions and oral hearings
11.23 Written submissions and oral hearings
Written submissions
(1) If the Registrar decides that a person may be heard by way of written submissions, the Registrar must:
(a) notify the person of the period in which the submissions must be filed (being a period of at least 10 business days); and
(b) decide the matter after considering the written submissions; and
(c) notify the person of the Registrar’s decision in relation to the exercise of the discretionary power.
Oral hearings
(2) If the Registrar decides that a person may be heard by way of an oral hearing, the Registrar must notify the date, time and place of the hearing to the person at least 10 business days before the day the hearing is to begin.
(3) The Registrar may adjourn an oral hearing from time to time or from place to place by notifying the person.
(4) The Registrar may hold an oral hearing in which:
(a) a person appears in person; or
(b) a person participates by telephone or other means of telecommunications that the Registrar reasonably allows.
(5) In addition to the Registrar’s other powers, the Registrar may direct a person to provide a written summary of submissions.
(6) The Registrar must notify a person who appears at the hearing of the Registrar’s decision in relation to the exercise of the discretionary power.
11.24
Practice and procedure in relation to applications, oppositions and other matters
11.24 Practice and procedure in relation to applications, oppositions and other matters
(1) This regulation applies in relation to:
(a) applications, oppositions and matters that the Registrar is authorised, under the Act or these Regulations, to hear and decide; and
(b) matters being decided on the motion of the Registrar.
(2) Subject to these Regulations, the practice and procedure to be followed for the purposes of enabling the application or matter to be decided is to be determined by the Registrar.
(3) A person to be heard at a hearing may apply to the Registrar in respect of the practice and procedure relating to the hearing to be determined by the Registrar.
11.25
Giving of oral evidence
11.25 Giving of oral evidence
The Registrar may:
(a) require a person who has made a declaration to appear before him or her to give evidence orally on oath or affirmation in substitution for, or addition to, the evidence contained in the declaration; and
(b) allow the person to be cross‑examined on the declaration.
11.26
Declarations
11.26 Declarations
(1) A declaration required or permitted by the Act or these Regulations to be given to the Registrar must be in the approved form.
Note: Declaration forms in the approved form are available on the IP Australia website at www.ipaustralia.gov.au.
(2) A declaration in the form of a statutory declaration, required or permitted to be given to the Registrar, may be given to the Registrar in an electronic form by a means of electronic communication approved by the Registrar.
Note: A declaration that is not in the form of statutory declaration may also be given in an electronic form by means of an electronic communication: see section 11 of the Electronic Transactions Act 1999.
11.27
Non compliance in relation to documents other than design applications
11.27 Non compliance in relation to documents other than design applications
(1) This regulation applies in relation to a document other than a design application.
(2) A document filed at the Designs Office must comply with the formal requirements determined in an instrument under section 149A of the Act and must be in the form (if any) specified in a direction under section 144B of the Act.
(3) If a document does not comply with subregulation (2), or is not in accordance with any applicable approved form, the Registrar must, depending on the nature and deficiency of the document:
(a) return the document to the person from whom the document was received, with a statement indicating in what way the document does not comply with subregulation (2) or is not in accordance with the approved form; or
(b) direct that person to do the things specified in the direction to ensure that the document will comply with subregulation (2) or will be in accordance with the approved form; or
(c) treat the document as complying with subregulation (2) or as being in accordance with the approved form.
(4) If the Registrar returns a document under paragraph (3)(a), the document is taken not to have been filed.
(5) If the Registrar gives a direction under paragraph (3)(b), the document is taken to have been filed unless the person to whom the direction was given does not comply with the direction within 2 months from the day when it was given.
11.27A Consequences for evidence not mee
11.27A Consequences for evidence not meeting filing requirements
11.27A Consequences for evidence not meeting filing requirements
(1) If, in relation to evidence received at the Designs Office, a person does not comply with a direction under section 144C of the Act, the Registrar may treat the evidence:
(a) as not having been filed and notify the person, including in the notification a statement indicating how the direction has not been complied with; or
(b) as having been filed, but direct the person to do such things as are necessary to ensure that the direction is complied with.
(2) If the Registrar gives a direction under paragraph (1)(b) and the person does not comply with the direction within the period specified in the direction, the Registrar may treat the evidence as not having been filed.
11.28
Directions for actions not otherwise prescribed
11.28 Directions for actions not otherwise prescribed
If:
(a) the Registrar reasonably believes that it is necessary, for the proper prosecution or completion of proceedings before the Registrar, for a person to perform an act, file a document or produce evidence; and
(b) that action is not specified elsewhere in the Act or these Regulations;
the Registrar may, by notification to the person, direct the person to perform the act, file the document or produce the evidence.
11.29
Acting for persons unable to act
11.29 Acting for persons unable to act
(1) If a person is incapable of doing anything required or permitted by the Act or these Regulations to be done because of infancy, mental disability, physical disability or disease, a court may, on the application by a person acting for the incapable person or by any other person interested in the doing of the thing:
(a) do that thing in the name of, and on behalf of, the incapable person; or
(b) appoint a person to do the thing in the name of, and on behalf of, the incapable person.
(2) A thing done in the name of, and on behalf of, an incapable person is taken to have been done by that person as if he or she had not been incapable when the thing was done.
(3) In this regulation:
mental disability means a disturbance or defect, to a severely disabling degree, of perceptual interpretation, comprehension, reasoning, learning, judgment, memory, motivation or emotion.
11.30
Requirements that cannot be complied with for reasonable causes
11.30 Requirements that cannot be complied with for reasonable causes
If:
(a) a person is required, under these Regulations, to sign a document, make a declaration, file or give to the Registrar a document or evidence, or to do any other act or thing; and
(b) the Registrar is satisfied that the person cannot reasonably comply with the requirement;
the Registrar may, subject to any condition that he or she reasonably directs, dispense with the requirement.
11.31
Review of decisions
11.31 Review of decisions
(1) In this regulation:
decision has the same meaning as in the Administrative Review Tribunal Act 2024.
Tribunal means the Administrative Review Tribunal.
(2) Application may be made to the Tribunal for review of a decision of the Registrar under subparagraph 9.05(5)(c)(ii).
(3) If the Registrar gives a person affected by a decision mentioned in subregulation (2) written notice of the making of the decision, the notice must include a statement to the effect that, subject to the Administrative Review Tribunal Act 2024, application may be made to the Tribunal for review of that decision by or on behalf of the person whose interests are affected.
(4) Failure to comply with subregulation (3) in relation to a decision does not affect the validity of the decision.
11.32
Period for doing certain acts—office not open for business
11.32 Period for doing certain acts—office not open for business
For subsection 136A(1) of the Act, the circumstance is that the act is done at:
(a) the Designs Office; or
(b) a sub‑office of the Designs Office;
that was not open for business.
Note: Subsection 136A(1) provides as follows:
‘(1) If the last day of a period provided by this Act (except this section) or the regulations for doing an act is a day when the Designs Office, or a sub‑office of the Designs Office, is not open for business, the act may be done in prescribed circumstances on the next day when the office or sub‑office is open for business.’.
11.33
Days when office not open for business
11.33 Days when office not open for business
(1) For paragraph 136A(2)(a) of the Act, the days on which the Designs Office, or a sub‑office of the Designs Office, is not open for business are:
(a) Saturday; and
(b) Sunday; and
(c) Australia Day; and
(d) Anzac Day.
(2) For paragraph 136A(2)(b) of the Act, the table sets out prescribed persons.
Item
Person
1
The Director General of IP Australia
2
The Deputy Director General of IP Australia
3
Another person who:(a) is an SES employee of IP Australia; and(b) acts with the agreement of the Director General of IP Australia
4
Another person who:(a) is an SES employee of IP Australia; and(b) acts with the agreement of the Deputy Director General of IP Australia
5
Another person who:(a) is an SES employee of IP Australia; and(b) acts with the agreement of another SES employee of IP Australia
Note: SES employee is explained in section 34 of the Public Service Act 1999. That meaning is applied generally to Commonwealth legislation by section 2B of the Acts Interpretation Act 1901.
(3) For paragraph 136A(2)(b) of the Act, the prescribed way of publishing a declaration is in the Official Journal of Designs.
11.34
Period for doing certain acts—acts to which section 136A does not apply
11.34 Period for doing certain acts—acts to which section 136A does not apply
For subsection 136A(7) of the Act, an act done in relation to proceedings in a court or a tribunal is prescribed.
Chapter 12—Application, saving and transitional provisions
Part 1
General
Part 1—General
12.01
Conversion of transitional applications
12.01 Conversion of transitional applications
(1) For paragraph 159(2)(a) of the Act, the prescribed period:
(a) begins on the commencement of this subregulation; and
(b) ends immediately before:
(i) the design is registered; or
(ii) the application lapses or is withdrawn or refused.
(2) For paragraph 159(2)(c) of the Act, the request must be made in the approved form.
12.02
Former Designs Regulations—transitional
12.02 Former Designs Regulations—transitional
Despite the repeal of the Designs Regulations 1982, those Regulations continue to have effect to the extent necessary to give effect to Part 2 of Chapter 12 of the Act.
12.03
Designs excluded from transitional applications that are not converted applications
12.03 Designs excluded from transitional applications that are not converted applications
(1) This regulation applies if:
(a) 1 or more designs are disclosed in a transitional application; and
(b) the transitional application is amended under section 22B of the old Act to exclude 1 or more of those designs; and
(c) the transitional application is not a converted application; and
(d) before the registration, or the refusal of the registration, of the design or designs in the transitional application, the applicant files a design application under section 21 of the Act in respect of 1 or more of the designs excluded from the transitional application (the excluded transitional designs).
Note: For a transitional application that is a converted application, see section 160 of the Act.
(2) A design application in respect of excluded transitional designs must include a request for registration or publication of all the designs disclosed in the application.
(3) In applying these Regulations (other than regulations 1.04 and 3.02) in relation to an excluded transitional design:
(a) a reference to an excluded design is taken to be a reference to the excluded transitional design; and
(b) a reference to an initial application is taken to be a reference to the transitional application; and
(c) a reference to ‘the design number that was allocated to the excluded design in the initial application’ is taken to be a reference to ‘the application number of the transitional application in which the excluded transitional design was disclosed’; and
(d) a reference to ‘a design application mentioned in subsection 23(2) of the Act’ is taken to be a reference to ‘a design application mentioned in paragraph 12.03(1)(d)’.
(4) Subregulation (5) applies in relation to a design application mentioned in paragraph (1)(d) that was filed before this regulation commences.
(5) If a request for registration or publication of each design disclosed in the design application is filed within the period prescribed under these Regulations, as in force immediately before this regulation commences:
(a) the request is taken to have been filed on the day when the design application was filed; and
(b) the design application is taken to have complied with subregulation (2).
(6) In this regulation:
transitional application means an application for registration of a design that was made under the old Act before 17 June 2004.
12.04
Protection and compensation provisions—transitional
12.04 Protection and compensation provisions—transitional
(1) Subsections 18(3) and 18(4) of the old Act, and regulations 29AA, 29A and 29B of, and Schedule 1 to, the old Regulations, are taken to have effect, in relation to an application for a licence under subregulation 29AA(2) of the old Regulations, as if those provisions had not been repealed.
(2) Subsection 27B(7) of the old Act, and regulations 29, 29A and 29B of, and Schedule 1 to, the old Regulations, are taken to have effect, in relation to an application for a licence under subregulation 29(2) of the old Regulations, as if those provisions had not been repealed.
Part 2
Amendments made by particular instruments
Part 2—Amendments made by particular instruments
12.05
Amendments made by the Intellectual Property Legislation Amendment (Raising the Bar) Regulation 2013 (No. 1)
12.05 Amendments made by the Intellectual Property Legislation Amendment (Raising the Bar) Regulation 2013 (No. 1)
The amendments of these Regulations made by item 3 of Schedule 6 to the Intellectual Property Legislation Amendment (Raising the Bar) Regulation 2013 (No. 1), other than the insertion of new subregulation 11.22(1), apply in relation to a hearing for which the Registrar issues a hearing notice, or an invitation to be heard, on or after 15 April 2013.
Part 3
Amendments made by the Intellectual Property Laws Amendment (Productivity Commission Response Part 1 and Other Measures) Regulations 2018
Part 3—Amendments made by the Intellectual Property Laws Amendment (Productivity Commission Response Part 1 and Other Measures) Regulations 2018
12.06
Amendments made by Part 2 of Schedule 2
12.06 Amendments made by Part 2 of Schedule 2
(1) The amendments of regulations 3.14, 4.04, 4.05, 5.03, 5.04, 9.03, 9.05, 10.02, 11.03, 11.23 and 11.28 made by Part 2 of Schedule 2 to the Intellectual Property Laws Amendment (Productivity Commission Response Part 1 and Other Measures) Regulations 2018 apply in relation to notifications occurring on or after the commencement of that Part.
(2) Chapter 5, as in force immediately before the commencement of Part 2 of Schedule 2 to the Intellectual Property Laws Amendment (Productivity Commission Response Part 1 and Other Measures) Regulations 2018, continues to apply on and after that commencement in relation to a notice given under subsection 66(2) of the Act before that commencement.
(3) Regulation 10.02, as in force immediately before the commencement of Part 2 of Schedule 2 to the Intellectual Property Laws Amendment (Productivity Commission Response Part 1 and Other Measures) Regulations 2018, continues to apply on and after that commencement in relation to a notice mentioned in subparagraph 10.02(2)(b)(ii) given before that commencement.
(4) Regulation 11.03, as in force immediately before the commencement of Part 2 of Schedule 2 to the Intellectual Property Laws Amendment (Productivity Commission Response Part 1 and Other Measures) Regulations 2018, continues to apply on and after that commencement in relation to a notice given under section 41 of the Act before that commencement.
12.07
Amendments made by Part 3 of Schedule 2
12.07 Amendments made by Part 3 of Schedule 2
(1) The amendments of regulation 5.08 made by Part 3 of Schedule 2 to the Intellectual Property Laws Amendment (Productivity Commission Response Part 1 and Other Measures) Regulations 2018 apply in relation to the provision of material to the Registrar on or after the commencement of that Part.
(2) The repeal of regulation 11.01A, and the amendments of items 1, 2 and 5 of the table in clause 1 of Schedule 4, made by Part 3 of Schedule 2 to the Intellectual Property Laws Amendment (Productivity Commission Response Part 1 and Other Measures) Regulations 2018 apply in relation to documents filed on or after the commencement of that Part.
(3) The repeal of subregulation 11.25(1) made by Part 3 of Schedule 2 to the Intellectual Property Laws Amendment (Productivity Commission Response Part 1 and Other Measures) Regulations 2018 applies in relation to evidence given on or after the commencement of that Part.
(4) The amendment of subregulation 11.25(2) made by Part 3 of Schedule 2 to the Intellectual Property Laws Amendment (Productivity Commission Response Part 1 and Other Measures) Regulations 2018 does not affect the validity of any requirement or permission given under that subregulation before the commencement of that Part.
(5) The amendments of regulation 11.27 made by Part 3 of Schedule 2 to the Intellectual Property Laws Amendment (Productivity Commission Response Part 1 and Other Measures) Regulations 2018 apply in relation to documents filed on or after the commencement of that Part.
(6) Regulation 11.27A, as inserted by Part 3 of Schedule 2 to the Intellectual Property Laws Amendment (Productivity Commission Response Part 1 and Other Measures) Regulations 2018, applies in relation to evidence filed on or after the commencement of that Part.
12.08
Amendments made by Part 9 of Schedule 2
12.08 Amendments made by Part 9 of Schedule 2
The amendments of paragraphs 4.04(1)(f) and 4.05(1)(f) made by Part 9 of Schedule 2 to the Intellectual Property Laws Amendment (Productivity Commission Response Part 1 and Other Measures) Regulations 2018 apply in relation to design applications filed on or after the commencement of that Part.
Part 4
Amendments made by the Designs Amendment (Advisory Council on Intellectual Property Response) Regulations 2021
Part 4—Amendments made by the Designs Amendment (Advisory Council on Intellectual Property Response) Regulations 2021
12.09
Registration of designs—removal of publication option
12.09 Registration of designs—removal of publication option
(1) The amendment of subparagraph 3.02(b)(ii) made by Schedule 2 to the Designs Amendment (Advisory Council on Intellectual Property Response) Regulations 2021 applies in relation to initial applications filed under section 21 of the Act on or after the commencement of that Schedule.
(2) The amendment of regulation 3.13, the repeal and substitution of regulation 3.14, the amendments of regulations 3.15 and 4.01, the repeal of regulations 4.02 and 4.03 and of Part 4.4 of Chapter 4, the repeal and substitution of regulation 11.03, the amendment of regulation 11.13 and the repeal and substitution of item 2 of the table in clause 1 of Schedule 4 made by Schedule 2 to the Designs Amendment (Advisory Council on Intellectual Property Response) Regulations 2021 apply in relation to design applications filed under section 21 of the Act on or after the commencement of that Schedule.
12.10
Priority date where application for protection made in a Convention country
12.10 Priority date where application for protection made in a Convention country
The amendment of regulation 3.06 made by Schedule 3 to the Designs Amendment (Advisory Council on Intellectual Property Response) Regulations 2021 applies in relation to basic applications made on or after the commencement of this regulation.
12.11
Formal requirements
12.11 Formal requirements
(1) A form approved by the Registrar and in force immediately before the commencement of Schedule 4 to the Designs Amendment (Advisory Council on Intellectual Property Response) Regulations 2021 for the purposes of a provision of these Regulations has effect on and after that commencement as if it were a form approved by the Registrar in an instrument under subregulation 1.04(1A) for the purposes of that provision.
(2) The amendments of regulations 4.04 and 4.05 and the repeal of Schedule 2 (so far as it relates to those regulations) made by Schedule 4 to the Designs Amendment (Advisory Council on Intellectual Property Response) Regulations 2021 apply in relation to design applications filed under section 21 of the Act on or after the commencement of Schedule 4 to the Designs Amendment (Advisory Council on Intellectual Property Response) Regulations 2021.
(3) The amendments of regulation 11.27 and the repeal of Schedule 2 (so far as it relates to that regulation) made by Schedule 4 to the Designs Amendment (Advisory Council on Intellectual Property Response) Regulations 2021 apply in relation to a document filed at the Designs Office on or after the commencement of Schedule 4 to the Designs Amendment (Advisory Council on Intellectual Property Response) Regulations 2021.
Part 5
Amendments made by the Intellectual Property Legislation Amendment (Fee Amounts and Other Measures) Regulations 2024
Part 5—Amendments made by the Intellectual Property Legislation Amendment (Fee Amounts and Other Measures) Regulations 2024
12.12
Application of amendments
12.12 Application of amendments
The amendments of Schedule 3 made by the Intellectual Property Legislation Amendment (Fee Amounts and Other Measures) Regulations 2024 apply in respect of proceedings that begin on or after the commencement of that instrument.
Division 1
Expenses
Division 1—Expenses
1 A person who has paid a fee prescribed in these Regulations in relation to proceedings before the Registrar may be paid the amount of the fee.
Note: If the person wishes to be paid, the person must apply for an award of costs in respect of the proceedings: see regulation 10.02.
2 A person attending proceedings before the Registrar must be paid:
(a) a reasonable amount for allowances for transport between the person’s usual place of residence and the place where he or she attends the proceedings; and
(b) if the person is required to be absent overnight from his or her usual place of residence—a reasonable amount for allowances up to a daily maximum of $1,050 for meals and accommodation.
Division 2
Allowances
Division 2—Allowances
3 A person who, because of his or her professional, scientific or other special skill or knowledge, is summoned to appear as a witness before the Registrar must be paid:
(a) if the person is remunerated in his or her occupation by wages, salary or fees—an amount equal to the amount of wages, salary or fees not paid to the person because of his or her attendance as a witness; or
(b) in any other case—an amount of not less than $210, or more than $1,050, for each day when he or she so attends.
4 A person summoned to appear as a witness, other than a witness referred to in clause 3, before the Registrar must be paid:
(a) if the person is remunerated in his or her occupation by wages, salary or fees—an amount equal to the amount of wages, salary or fees not paid to the person because of his or her attendance as a witness; or
(b) in any other case—an amount of not less than $120, or more than $195, for each day when he or she so attends.
1
Table of fees
1 Table of fees
The following table sets out fees that are payable in relation to matters specified in the table.
<table cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" style="width:100%; border-collapse:collapse"><thead><tr><td style="width:9.42%; border-top:1.5pt solid #000000; border-bottom:1.5pt solid #000000; padding-right:5.4pt; padding-left:5.4pt; vertical-align:top"><p class="TableHeading"><span>Item</span></p></td><td style="width:50.1%; border-top:1.5pt solid #000000; border-bottom:1.5pt solid #000000; padding-right:5.4pt; padding-left:5.4pt; vertical-align:top"><p class="TableHeading"><span>Matter</span></p></td><td colspan="2" style="border-top:1.5pt solid #000000; border-bottom:1.5pt solid #000000; padding-right:5.4pt; padding-left:5.4pt; vertical-align:top"><p class="TableHeading"><span>Fee</span></p></td></tr></thead><tbody><tr><td style="width:9.42%; padding-right:5.4pt; padding-left:5.4pt; vertical-align:top"><p class="Tabletext"><span>1</span></p></td><td style="width:50.1%; padding-right:5.4pt; padding-left:5.4pt; vertical-align:top"><p class="Tabletext"><span>Filing a design application:</span></p><p class="Tablea"><span>(a) in respect of one design as mentioned in paragraph</span><span> </span><span>22(1)(a) or (b) of the Act:</span></p></td><td colspan="2" style="padding-right:5.4pt; padding-left:5.4pt; vertical-align:top"><p class="Tabletext"><span></span></p></td></tr><tr><td style="width:9.42%; padding-right:5.4pt; padding-left:5.4pt; vertical-align:top"><p class="Tabletext"><span></span></p></td><td style="width:50.1%; padding-right:5.4pt; padding-left:5.4pt; vertical-align:top"><p class="Tablei"><span>(i) by preferred means;</span></p></td><td colspan="2" style="padding-right:5.4pt; padding-left:5.4pt; vertical-align:top"><p class="Tabletext"><span>$200</span></p></td></tr><tr><td style="width:9.42%; padding-right:5.4pt; padding-left:5.4pt; vertical-align:top"><p class="Tabletext"><span></span></p></td><td style="width:50.1%; padding-right:5.4pt; padding-left:5.4pt; vertical-align:top"><p class="Tablei"><span>(ii) by another means;</span></p></td><td colspan="2" style="padding-right:5.4pt; padding-left:5.4pt; vertical-align:top"><p class="Tabletext"><span>$400</span></p></td></tr><tr><td style="width:9.42%; padding-right:5.4pt; padding-left:5.4pt; vertical-align:top"><p class="Tabletext"><span></span></p></td><td style="width:50.1%; padding-right:5.4pt; padding-left:5.4pt; vertical-align:top"><p class="Tablea"><span>(b) in respect of more than one design as mentioned in paragraph</span><span> </span><span>22(1)(c) or (d) of the Act:</span></p></td><td colspan="2" style="padding-right:5.4pt; padding-left:5.4pt; vertical-align:top"><p class="Tabletext"><span></span></p></td></tr><tr><td style="width:9.42%; padding-right:5.4pt; padding-left:5.4pt; vertical-align:top"><p class="Tabletext"><span></span></p></td><td style="width:50.1%; padding-right:5.4pt; padding-left:5.4pt; vertical-align:top"><p class="Tablei"><span>(i) by preferred means;</span></p></td><td colspan="2" style="padding-right:5.4pt; padding-left:5.4pt; vertical-align:top"><p class="Tabletext"><span>The sum of:</span></p><p class="Tablea"><span>(a) $200; and</span></p><p class="Tablea"><span>(b) $150 for each design, other than the first one, identified by the applicant as being a separate design disclosed in the application</span></p></td></tr><tr><td style="width:9.42%; border-bottom:0.75pt solid #000000; padding-right:5.4pt; padding-left:5.4pt; vertical-align:top"><p class="Tabletext"><span></span></p></td><td style="width:50.1%; border-bottom:0.75pt solid #000000; padding-right:5.4pt; padding-left:5.4pt; vertical-align:top"><p class="Tablei"><span>(ii) by another means</span></p></td><td colspan="2" style="border-bottom:0.75pt solid #000000; padding-right:5.4pt; padding-left:5.4pt; vertical-align:top"><p class="Tabletext"><span>The sum of:</span></p><p class="Tablea"><span>(a) $400; and</span></p><p class="Tablea"><span>(b) $350 for each design, other than the first one, identified by the applicant as being a separate design disclosed in the application</span></p></td></tr><tr><td style="width:9.42%; border-top:0.75pt solid #000000; padding-right:5.4pt; padding-left:5.4pt; vertical-align:top"><p class="Tabletext"><span>2</span></p></td><td style="width:50.1%; border-top:0.75pt solid #000000; padding-right:5.4pt; padding-left:5.4pt; vertical-align:top"><p class="Tabletext"><span>Filing a request under section</span><span> </span><span>28 of the Act to amend a design application to identify further designs disclosed in the application:</span></p></td><td colspan="2" style="border-top:0.75pt solid #000000; padding-right:5.4pt; padding-left:5.4pt; vertical-align:top"><p class="Tabletext"><span></span></p></td></tr><tr><td style="width:9.42%; padding-right:5.4pt; padding-left:5.4pt; vertical-align:top"><p class="Tabletext"><span></span></p></td><td style="width:50.1%; padding-right:5.4pt; padding-left:5.4pt; vertical-align:top"><p class="Tablea"><span>(a) if the application was filed by preferred means; or</span></p></td><td colspan="2" style="padding-right:5.4pt; padding-left:5.4pt; vertical-align:top"><p class="Tabletext"><span>$200 for each further design covered by the request</span></p></td></tr><tr><td style="width:9.42%; padding-right:5.4pt; padding-left:5.4pt; vertical-align:top"><p class="Tabletext"><span></span></p></td><td style="width:50.1%; padding-right:5.4pt; padding-left:5.4pt; vertical-align:top"><p class="Tablea"><span>(b) if the application was filed by another means</span></p></td><td colspan="2" style="padding-right:5.4pt; padding-left:5.4pt; vertical-align:top"><p class="Tabletext"><span>$400 for each further design covered by the request</span></p></td></tr><tr><td style="width:9.42%; border-top:0.75pt solid #000000; border-bottom:0.75pt solid #000000; padding-right:5.4pt; padding-left:5.4pt; vertical-align:top"><p class="Tabletext"><span>3</span></p></td><td style="width:50.1%; border-top:0.75pt solid #000000; border-bottom:0.75pt solid #000000; padding-right:5.4pt; padding-left:5.4pt; vertical-align:top"><p class="Tabletext"><span>Filing a request, by the registered owner of a design, for examination of the design</span></p></td><td colspan="2" style="border-top:0.75pt solid #000000; border-bottom:0.75pt solid #000000; padding-right:5.4pt; padding-left:5.4pt; vertical-align:top"><p class="Tabletext"><span>$500</span></p></td></tr><tr><td style="width:9.42%; border-top:0.75pt solid #000000; border-bottom:0.75pt solid #000000; padding-right:5.4pt; padding-left:5.4pt; vertical-align:top"><p class="Tabletext"><span>4</span></p></td><td style="width:50.1%; border-top:0.75pt solid #000000; border-bottom:0.75pt solid #000000; padding-right:5.4pt; padding-left:5.4pt; vertical-align:top"><p class="Tabletext"><span>Filing a request, by a person other than the registered owner of a design, for examination of a design</span></p></td><td colspan="2" style="border-top:0.75pt solid #000000; border-bottom:0.75pt solid #000000; padding-right:5.4pt; padding-left:5.4pt; vertical-align:top"><p class="Tablea"><span>(a) payable by the person filing the request—$250; and</span></p><p class="Tablea"><span>(b) payable by the registered owner—$250</span></p></td></tr><tr><td style="width:9.42%; border-top:0.75pt solid #000000; padding-right:5.4pt; padding-left:5.4pt; vertical-align:top"><p class="Tabletext" style="page-break-after:avoid"><span>5</span></p></td><td style="width:50.1%; border-top:0.75pt solid #000000; padding-right:5.4pt; padding-left:5.4pt; vertical-align:top"><p class="Tabletext" style="page-break-after:avoid"><span>Filing an application for renewal of the registration of a design</span></p></td><td colspan="2" style="border-top:0.75pt solid #000000; padding-right:5.4pt; padding-left:5.4pt; vertical-align:top"><p class="Tabletext" style="page-break-after:avoid"><span></span></p></td></tr><tr><td style="width:9.42%; padding-right:5.4pt; padding-left:5.4pt; vertical-align:top"><p class="Tabletext"><span></span></p></td><td style="width:50.1%; padding-right:5.4pt; padding-left:5.4pt; vertical-align:top"><p class="Tablea"><span>(a) by preferred means</span></p></td><td colspan="2" style="padding-right:5.4pt; padding-left:5.4pt; vertical-align:top"><p class="Tabletext"><span>$400</span></p></td></tr><tr><td style="width:9.42%; padding-right:5.4pt; padding-left:5.4pt; vertical-align:top"><p class="Tabletext"><span></span></p></td><td style="width:50.1%; padding-right:5.4pt; padding-left:5.4pt; vertical-align:top"><p class="Tablea"><span>(b) by another means</span></p></td><td colspan="2" style="padding-right:5.4pt; padding-left:5.4pt; vertical-align:top"><p class="Tabletext"><span>$450</span></p></td></tr><tr><td style="width:9.42%; border-bottom:0.75pt solid #000000; padding-right:5.4pt; padding-left:5.4pt; vertical-align:top"><p class="Tabletext"><span></span></p></td><td style="width:50.1%; border-bottom:0.75pt solid #000000; padding-right:5.4pt; padding-left:5.4pt; vertical-align:top"><p class="Tabletext"><span>and, in addition, if the fee is paid after the expiry of 5 years from the day when the term of registration of the design starts</span></p></td><td colspan="2" style="border-bottom:0.75pt solid #000000; padding-right:5.4pt; padding-left:5.4pt; vertical-align:top"><p class="Tabletext"><span>$100 for each month or part of a month after the expiry of the 5 years and before the fee is paid (maximum $600)</span></p></td></tr><tr><td style="width:9.42%; border-bottom:0.75pt solid #000000; padding-right:5.4pt; padding-left:5.4pt; vertical-align:top"><p class="Tabletext"><span>7</span></p></td><td style="width:50.1%; border-bottom:0.75pt solid #000000; padding-right:5.4pt; padding-left:5.4pt; vertical-align:top"><p class="Tabletext"><span>Filing an application for an extension of time on the ground specified in paragraph</span><span> </span><span>137(2)(a) of the Act</span></p></td><td style="width:40.18%; border-bottom:0.75pt solid #000000; padding-right:5.4pt; padding-left:5.4pt; vertical-align:top"><p class="Tabletext"><span>$100 for each month or part of a month for which the extension is sought</span></p></td><td style="border-top:0.75pt solid #000000; vertical-align:top"></td></tr><tr><td style="width:9.42%; border-top:0.75pt solid #000000; border-bottom:0.75pt solid #000000; padding-right:5.4pt; padding-left:5.4pt; vertical-align:top"><p class="Tabletext"><span>8</span></p></td><td style="width:50.1%; border-top:0.75pt solid #000000; border-bottom:0.75pt solid #000000; padding-right:5.4pt; padding-left:5.4pt; vertical-align:top"><p class="Tabletext"><span>Filing an application for an extension of time on the ground specified in paragraph</span><span> </span><span>137(2)(b) of the Act</span></p></td><td style="width:40.18%; border-top:0.75pt solid #000000; border-bottom:0.75pt solid #000000; padding-right:5.4pt; padding-left:5.4pt; vertical-align:top"><p class="Tabletext"><span>$100</span></p></td><td style="vertical-align:top"></td></tr><tr><td style="width:9.42%; border-top:0.75pt solid #000000; border-bottom:0.75pt solid #000000; padding-right:5.4pt; padding-left:5.4pt; vertical-align:top"><p class="Tabletext"><span>9</span></p></td><td style="width:50.1%; border-top:0.75pt solid #000000; border-bottom:0.75pt solid #000000; padding-right:5.4pt; padding-left:5.4pt; vertical-align:top"><p class="Tabletext"><span>Filing a notice of opposition</span></p></td><td style="width:40.18%; border-top:0.75pt solid #000000; border-bottom:0.75pt solid #000000; padding-right:5.4pt; padding-left:5.4pt; vertical-align:top"><p class="Tabletext"><span>$600</span></p></td><td style="vertical-align:top"></td></tr><tr><td style="width:9.42%; border-top:0.75pt solid #000000; border-bottom:0.75pt solid #000000; padding-right:5.4pt; padding-left:5.4pt; vertical-align:top"><p class="Tabletext"><span>11</span></p></td><td style="width:50.1%; border-top:0.75pt solid #000000; border-bottom:0.75pt solid #000000; padding-right:5.4pt; padding-left:5.4pt; vertical-align:top"><p class="Tabletext"><span>Filing a request for a hearing</span></p></td><td style="width:40.18%; border-top:0.75pt solid #000000; border-bottom:0.75pt solid #000000; padding-right:5.4pt; padding-left:5.4pt; vertical-align:top"><p class="Tabletext"><span>$600</span></p></td><td style="vertical-align:top"></td></tr><tr><td style="width:9.42%; border-top:0.75pt solid #000000; border-bottom:0.75pt solid #000000; padding-right:5.4pt; padding-left:5.4pt; vertical-align:top"><p class="Tabletext"><span>12</span></p></td><td style="width:50.1%; border-top:0.75pt solid #000000; border-bottom:0.75pt solid #000000; padding-right:5.4pt; padding-left:5.4pt; vertical-align:top"><p class="Tabletext"><span>Appearing at a hearing</span></p></td><td style="width:40.18%; border-top:0.75pt solid #000000; border-bottom:0.75pt solid #000000; padding-right:5.4pt; padding-left:5.4pt; vertical-align:top"><p class="Tabletext"><span>$600 for each day, or part of a day, less any amount paid under item</span><span> </span><span>11 in relation to the hearing</span></p></td><td style="vertical-align:top"></td></tr><tr><td style="width:9.42%; border-top:0.75pt solid #000000; border-bottom:0.75pt solid #000000; padding-right:5.4pt; padding-left:5.4pt; vertical-align:top"><p class="Tabletext"><span>13</span></p></td><td style="width:50.1%; border-top:0.75pt solid #000000; border-bottom:0.75pt solid #000000; padding-right:5.4pt; padding-left:5.4pt; vertical-align:top"><p class="Tabletext"><span>Filing a request for the supply, by the Registrar, of not more than 3 documents relating to a single design application or a single design number</span></p></td><td style="width:40.18%; border-top:0.75pt solid #000000; border-bottom:0.75pt solid #000000; padding-right:5.4pt; padding-left:5.4pt; vertical-align:top"><p class="Tabletext"><span>$50 for each document</span></p></td><td style="vertical-align:top"></td></tr><tr><td style="width:9.42%; border-top:0.75pt solid #000000; border-bottom:0.75pt solid #000000; padding-right:5.4pt; padding-left:5.4pt; vertical-align:top"><p class="Tabletext"><span>14</span></p></td><td style="width:50.1%; border-top:0.75pt solid #000000; border-bottom:0.75pt solid #000000; padding-right:5.4pt; padding-left:5.4pt; vertical-align:top"><p class="Tabletext"><span>Filing a request for the supply, by the Registrar, of 4 or more documents relating to a single design application or a single design number</span></p></td><td style="width:40.18%; border-top:0.75pt solid #000000; border-bottom:0.75pt solid #000000; padding-right:5.4pt; padding-left:5.4pt; vertical-align:top"><p class="Tabletext"><span>$200 for each request</span></p></td><td style="vertical-align:top"></td></tr><tr><td style="width:9.42%; border-bottom:1.5pt solid #000000; padding-right:5.4pt; padding-left:5.4pt; vertical-align:top"><p class="Tabletext"><span>15</span></p></td><td style="width:50.1%; border-bottom:1.5pt solid #000000; padding-right:5.4pt; padding-left:5.4pt; vertical-align:top"><p class="Tabletext"><span>If a request for the supply of documents is filed as mentioned in item</span><span> </span><span>13 or 14—filing a request that the supply be by means of expedited dispatch</span></p></td><td colspan="2" style="border-bottom:1.5pt solid #000000; padding-right:5.4pt; padding-left:5.4pt; vertical-align:top"><p class="Tabletext"><span>$20 for each request for the supply of documents</span></p></td></tr><tr style="height:0pt"><td style="width:40.15pt"></td><td style="width:213.65pt"></td><td style="width:171.35pt"></td><td style="width:1.3pt"></td></tr></tbody></table>
Source text: opening excerpt
Sourced from the Federal Register of Legislation (legislation.gov.au), CC BY 4.0.
1.01 Name of Regulations
1.01 Name of Regulations
These Regulations are the Designs Regulations 2004.
1.04 Interpretation
1.04 Interpretation
(1) In these Regulations:
Act means the Designs Act 2003.
approved form, in relation to a provision of these Regulations, means a form approved in an instrument under subregulation (1A) for the purposes of that provision.
basic application has the meaning given by subregulation 3.06(1).
designer has the same meaning as in paragraph 13(1)(a) of the Act.
excluded design has the same meaning as in section 23 of the Act.
expedited dispatch means a means of supplying documents that can reasonably be expected usually to be faster than ordinary post.
further design means a design that is disclosed in a design application, but that has not been identified, by the applicant, as being a separate design disclosed in the application.
initial application has the same meaning as in section 23 of the Act.
Official Journal means the Official Journal of Designs periodically published by the Registrar.
old Act means the Designs Act 1906.
old Regulations means the Designs Regulations 1982.
transitional application has the meaning given by subregulation 12.03(6).
(1A) The Registrar may, in writing, approve a form for the purposes of a provision of these Regulations.
(2) For these Regulations, a document is taken to be in the approved form if it contains all the information that the form requires.
(3) A reference in these Regulations to:
(a) the giving of a notice or other document to the Registrar; or
(b) the making of a request or an application to the Registrar;
includes a reference to the filing of the notice, document, request or application.
1.05 Convention country
1.05 Convention country
For the definition of Convention country in subsection 5A(1) of the Act, the following countries are prescribed:
(a) a foreign country that is a signatory to the Paris Convention for the Protection of Industrial Property of 20 March 1883, as in force from time to time;
(b) a foreign country that is a full member of the World Trade Organization.
Designs Regulations 2004 | Zoe
Prescribe the Registrar’s publication obligations and what details appear in the Official Journal for filings, amendments, lapsing and revocations (regs 3.04, 3.12, 3.15, 4.08(2), 4.13, 5.06(2), 5.07).
Set out fee amounts, who pays them, when they are payable, and the operational consequences of non‑payment, including lapsing of applications and cessation of registrations (regs 11.01-11.09 and Schedule 4).
Provide process rules for examinations of registrations, including timelines for completion, opportunities for written submissions and oral hearings, and treatment of material provided by third parties (regs 5.03-5.06, 5.08).
Specify practical administration: the Registrar’s power to delegate to particular classes of APS employees (reg 10.01), the Registrar’s discretion to exempt fees (reg 11.11), and the Registrar’s rules for correcting entries in the Register and handling proposed amendments (regs 9.01, 9.05).
The Regulations therefore convert statutory powers and rights in the Act into step‑by‑step operational requirements for filing, prosecuting and defending design rights, and for interaction with the Designs Office and its internal processes. They allocate the costs of those processes through explicit fees and set behavioural triggers for both applicants and the Registrar through time limits, formalities checks and publication rules.
Main concepts
The Regulations work with several recurring operational concepts. Define them and see how they are used.
Filing date and minimum filing requirements: A filing date is created only when the application meets the minimum filing requirements: the application must be clearly a design application, must identify and enable contact with the applicant, and must include a representation of each design (regs 3.01, 3.05). This turns the filing date into a self‑contained threshold event, not merely a lodging time stamp.
Basic application, priority and Convention country: The Regulations implement priority under the Paris Convention/WTO membership concept by treating an overseas application made in a Convention country within six months as a basic application and prescribing that, if the Australian application is filed within six months, the priority date may be the date of that basic application (reg 3.06). The term Convention country is prescribed by reference to signatories to the Paris Convention and WTO full members (reg 1.05). Specific overseas instruments such as the Hague Agreement, the Benelux Designs Convention and EC Treaty filings are treated as constituting an application in a Convention country (reg 3.06(6)).
Excluded design and transitional/initial/converted applications: The Regulations define and govern designs excluded from an initial/transitional application (regs 1.04, 3.02, 3.08, 12.03). They prescribe how priority date and publication mechanics operate in relation to excluded designs and transitional applications.
Formalities checks and representations/specimens: The Registrar’s formalities checks are precise. The Registrar must confirm approved form, absence of scandalous matter, compliance with document language rules (reg 11.18), appropriate product identification sufficient for Locarno classification, and that specimens (if used) are mountable on A4 and reproducible (regs 4.04(1)(a), (aa), (b), (c), (e)). For multiple designs similar checks apply but extended to each design and a confirmation that the number of designs matches the applicant’s identification (reg 4.05).
Examination and revocation procedures: The Regulations prescriptively set out the procedures and timelines the Registrar must follow when examining a registration for potential revocation (regs 5.01-5.07). A person other than the registered owner who requests examination must file in approved form and provide duplicate materials in relation to newness and distinctiveness (reg 5.01). The Registrar must notify, allow written response or request amendment, reconsider, and if still satisfied of a ground for revocation, give further notification and an opportunity to be heard (reg 5.03). Timelines for completing examinations are tied to the date of notifications and possible later material provided by third parties (reg 5.04).
Fees and consequences: Fees for core procedural steps are spelled out in Schedule 4 and implemented by reg 11.01. Non‑payment attracts mechanical consequences: lapse of applications, treated as not filed, or cessation of registration depending on the fee and the procedure (regs 11.02-11.09, 11.09A, 11.10). The Registrar may exempt a person from fees in whole or part on reasonable grounds (reg 11.11). Fees are recoverable as a Commonwealth debt (reg 11.12).
Registrar’s procedural discretion and delegation: The Registrar has delegated power rules and must give persons an opportunity to be heard before exercising discretion adversely (regs 10.01, 11.22-11.24). Delegation classes are set by APS levels and exclude some statutory powers such as summons and production under paragraphs 127(1)(a) and (c) unless delegated to higher levels (reg 10.01).
Official Journal and publication mechanics: Many notices are required to be published in the Official Journal, for example publication of receipt of applications, amendments, registrations, certificates of examination, notices of revocation and notices of lapsing (regs 3.04, 3.12, 3.15, 4.08(2), 5.06(2), 5.07). The Regulations also prescribe that giving a document electronically and notifying the person that it is available counts as giving the document and fixes the date as the Registrar’s dated day (reg 1.06).
Language, translation and formality: Approved forms must be in English and other documents must either be in English or accompanied by a verified translation; text that is part of the design is exempt from the translation requirement (reg 11.18). Approved forms may be specified or revised by the Registrar (reg 1.04(1A)).
These concepts are operationalised across multiple rules in these Regulations and together determine how an applicant or interested third party must prepare filings, manage timelines and budgets, and interact with the Registrar and the Register.
Who it affects
The Regulations affect a range of parties who interact with design rights processes. Identify them and the principal regulatory impacts.
Applicants and prospective applicants: Anyone who files a design application is directly affected by the minimum filing requirements (reg 3.01), formalities for representations and specimens (regs 4.04, 4.05), translations (reg 11.18), and the fee schedule (reg 11.01 and Schedule 4). They must ensure their filing meets the defined content and form to secure a filing date (reg 3.05). They also bear fees for filing and for requests such as identifying further designs, registration requests and renewals (Schedule 4). Failure to pay certain fees triggers lapsing or treatment as not filed (regs 11.02-11.09).
Registered owners: Registered owners who wish to maintain or enforce registrations must manage renewal windows (reg 4.09), respond to examination notifications and possible revocation (regs 5.03-5.07), and pay fees for examination when requested by others or themselves (regs 5.01, 11.04-11.05). They are recorded in the Register and must supply an address for service and other particulars (regs 9.01, 11.19). Registered owners are also the addressee for notices and may be obliged to pay fees if another person requests examination (reg 11.05).
Third parties and challengers: Persons who request examination, seek revocation, apply for copies or request the supply of documents are directly affected. Requests by a person other than the registered owner for examination require paying a filing fee and providing duplicate materials (reg 5.01; Schedule 4 item 4). Third parties that supply material during examination are subject to procedural rules about duplication and translation (reg 5.08; reg 11.18). If they seek hearings or supply requests for documents they must pay fees (Schedule 4 items 11-15).
Representatives and agents: Agents acting on behalf of applicants or owners are regulated in their conduct. An agent who signs on behalf of a principal must note that fact and include the principal’s name on the document (reg 11.15(2)). Non‑legal practitioner agents are expressly prohibited from preparing court documents or conducting court proceedings (reg 11.15(3)). Registered patent attorneys have lien rights similar to solicitors for design matters (reg 11.16).
The Registrar and the Designs Office staff: The Registrar’s powers, duties and internal procedure are constrained and enabled by the Regulations. They may delegate powers to employees at specified APS classifications with limited exceptions (reg 10.01). They must publish many notices in the Official Journal and operate within prescribed timeframes for notifications and examinations (regs 1.06, 3.04, 5.04). The Registrar exercises discretion in procedural matters and must give persons an opportunity to be heard before acting adversely, with prescribed options for written submissions and oral hearings (regs 11.22-11.24).
Courts, tribunals and persons involved in review: The Regulations identify processes that intersect with judicial or tribunal review. For example, time extensions and certain procedural outcomes may involve the Administrative Review Tribunal (reg 11.13) and the acts excluded from section 136A’s extension rule include actions in courts or tribunals (reg 11.34). Regulation 11.31 explicitly provides an avenue for review to the Administrative Review Tribunal in relation to a specified Registrar decision under reg 9.05(5)(c)(ii).
IP professionals and witnesses: The schedule of costs and allowances (Schedule 3) and the expenses allowances provisions set explicit rates for attendance and witness allowances. Witnesses summoned to attend before the Registrar are entitled to specified allowances and may receive remuneration covering lost wages (Schedule 3, Division 2).
In short, the Regulations allocate duties and costs among applicants, registered owners, challengers, agents and the Designs Office; prescribe timing and procedural obligations; and create predictable administrative consequences for non‑compliance. Those who act in design filing, prosecution, defence and transactions must adapt processes, budgets and timing to these requirements.
Key duties and rights
This section summarises the principal duties imposed and rights conferred by the Regulations, with specific references.
Duties owed by applicants and owners
Meet minimum filing requirements to secure a filing date: identify the filing as a design application, provide identity and contact details, and include a representation of each design (reg 3.01; reg 3.05).
Comply with language and translation rules: approved forms must be in English; other documents must be in English or accompanied by a verified translation (reg 11.18(1)-(2)), though textual elements of the design itself need not be translated (reg 11.18(3)).
Ensure representations and specimens meet Registrar’s reproduction and mounting requirements: specimens must be mountable on A4, stored without damaging other documents, and reproducible by common means (reg 4.04(1)(e); reg 4.05(1)(e)).
Pay prescribed fees at the prescribed times: fees payable to the Registrar are specified in Schedule 4 and are payable on filing or at prescribed points such as when applying for renewal or a hearing (reg 11.01(1), (5); Schedule 4).
Provide duplicate materials and approved forms when required: for example where an examination request is made by someone other than the registered owner and contains material on newness and distinctiveness, that material must be provided in duplicate (reg 5.01(b); reg 5.08).
Rights and protections for applicants, registered owners and others
Filing date protection: once minimum filing requirements are met the filing date is fixed by reg 3.05. Priority rights can attach under reg 3.06 when a basic application is relied upon.
Procedural rights in examination and discretionary processes: the Registrar must notify a registered owner of grounds for revocation, allow written contest, permit requests to amend the Register, reconsider and, in some circumstances, give an opportunity to be heard orally (reg 5.03(2)-(6); reg 11.22).
Publication and notice obligations: several procedural events trigger publication in the Official Journal, which creates public notice and, for interested parties, opportunities to respond or oppose (regs 3.04, 3.12, 3.15, 4.08(2), 4.13, 5.06(2), 5.07).
Right to seek review and costs awards: certain Registrar decisions may be reviewed by the Administrative Review Tribunal (reg 11.31). Parties to proceedings before the Registrar may apply for an award of costs within set timeframes (reg 10.02), and Schedule 3 sets out taxable cost items and amounts.
Fee exemption discretion: the Registrar may exempt a person from whole or part of a fee where satisfied on reasonable grounds that the action is justified (reg 11.11), creating administrative flexibility.
Administrative obligations and rights of the Registrar
Formalities and publication obligations: the Registrar must carry out formalities checks (regs 4.04, 4.05), publish prescribed details in the Official Journal (reg 3.04), and handle notices of lapsing, revocation and registration in the prescribed manner (regs 3.15, 4.08, 4.13, 5.07).
Powers to direct and require compliance: the Registrar may direct a person to file substitute documents, to provide additional material, or to perform acts not otherwise prescribed where necessary for proper prosecution or completion of proceedings (regs 3.09(2), 5.05(1)(e), 11.28).
Delegation and hearing process management: the Registrar may delegate powers to named APS classes (reg 10.01) and must give persons an opportunity to be heard before exercising a discretionary power adversely, specifying modes for written or oral hearings (regs 11.22-11.24).
Other operational duties
Service and address rules: where an address for service is provided in an approved form it must be in Australia or New Zealand with practical deliverability; service by post is a prescribed means (reg 11.19).
Maintenance of the Register and corrections: the Registrar may correct clerical errors on own motion or on request, but must publish proposals that materially alter entries and allow opposition within the prescribed period (reg 9.05).
These duties create a predictable set of actions to be taken by applicants and owners to establish and maintain rights, and they confer procedural protections including notice, opportunity to be heard, and avenues for review.
Penalties and enforcement
The Regulations themselves primarily prescribe administrative consequences rather than criminal penalties. Enforcement is effected through procedural consequences, publication, and recoverability of fees. Key mechanisms:
Consequences for non‑payment of fees
Lapse and cessation: The Regulations set out automatic procedural effects for failure to pay particular fees. For example, failure to pay the filing fee (Schedule 4 item 1) after invitations by the Registrar leads to the application lapsing or registered designs disclosed in the application ceasing at the end of the prescribed period (reg 11.02). The same approach applies to failure to pay the fee for a registered owner’s request for examination (reg 11.04), and failure to pay other filing fees results in the request being treated as not filed (regs 11.03, 11.06, 11.07, 11.09). The Registrar must not process document supply requests until the relevant fee is paid (reg 11.09(2)). These are direct enforcement levers to ensure payment.
Refusal to hold a hearing or to permit appearance: If the fee for requesting a hearing is unpaid, no hearing will be held until the fee is paid (reg 11.07(2)). If the person seeking to appear at a hearing has not paid the appearing fee then that person cannot appear (reg 11.08). The Regulations therefore enforce fee compliance through access to process.
Registrar powers to treat filings as not filed
Non‑compliant documents: The Registrar may return documents that do not meet formal requirements or direct corrective action (reg 11.27(3)). A document returned is taken not to have been filed (reg 11.27(4)). Where the Registrar gives a direction to comply, failure to comply within two months results in treatment as not filed (reg 11.27(5)).
Recovery and debt
Fees are recoverable as a Commonwealth debt: A fee payable under the Regulations is recoverable as a debt due to the Commonwealth (reg 11.12). This creates a civil enforcement pathway for unpaid fees.
Publication, revocation and lapsing as enforcement
Publication is a behavioural enforcement mechanism. Notices of lapsing, revocation, registration and related events are published in the Official Journal, putting the public on notice and enabling third parties to act (regs 3.04, 3.12, 3.15, 4.08(2), 4.13, 5.06(2), 5.07).
Procedural sequestration of rights
The Regulations authorise revocation or amendment of the Register where statutory grounds exist and prescribe processes for hearings and submissions. If the Registrar determines there is a ground for revocation after examination, the Registrar must notify and may revoke registration after required processes (reg 5.03(2), 5.06-5.07). A registered owner’s failure to respond or to attend a hearing may result in loss of protection.
Cost awards and taxation
Costs before the Registrar: Parties to proceedings can apply for an award of costs and the Registrar may tax and certify amounts in accordance with Schedule 3 (reg 10.02). This enforces procedural behaviour by imposing financial consequences on unsuccessful or dilatory parties in Registrar proceedings.
Discretionary relief and exemptions
The Registrar may exempt persons from fees in whole or part if reasonable grounds are shown (reg 11.11). The Registrar may also, where a person cannot comply with a requirement for reasonable causes, dispense with the requirement subject to conditions (reg 11.30). These are enforcement tempering mechanisms.
No criminal penalties in the Regulations
The Regulations do not themselves create criminal offences. Their enforcement rests on administrative consequences, publication, debt recovery and procedural rights management, consistent with their role as procedural instruments supporting the Act.
These enforcement mechanisms channel compliance toward meeting form, fee and timing obligations, and they use administrative closure, publication and civil debt collection rather than criminal sanctions.
How it interacts with other laws
The Regulations operate as subordinate legislation to the Designs Act 2003 and reference several other statutory instruments and regimes. The interaction points identified in the Regulations are specific and prescriptive.
Interaction with the Designs Act 2003
The Regulations give effect to many specific sections of the Act by prescribing details, timeframes, forms and fees. For example, regs 3.01 and 3.05 give content to subsection 21(2) and section 26 of the Act respectively. Examination, revocation and publication procedures set out in Chapter 5 of the Act are fleshed out in regs 5.03-5.07. The Regulations also prescribe what the Registrar must publish under sections such as 25, 31, 45 and 67 of the Act (regs 3.04, 3.12, 4.08, 5.06).
Interaction with international agreements and foreign law
The definition of Convention country for priority claims is prescribed by reference to signatories to the Paris Convention and to full WTO members (reg 1.05). Regulation 3.06(6) recognises filings under the Hague Agreement, the Benelux Designs Convention and the Treaty establishing the European Community as constituting an application in a Convention country for priority purposes.
Interaction with the old Act and old Regulations
Transitional arrangements preserve certain old Act and old Regulations provisions where necessary, for example for transitional and conversional applications made under the former Designs Act 1906 and its Regulations (regs 1.04 definitions, 12.02-12.04, 12.03). The Regulations state explicitly where older provisions continue to have effect for transitional matters (reg 12.02, reg 12.04).
Interaction with administrative review and courts
The Regulations lay out paths for internal and external review. They provide for review of certain Registrar decisions by the Administrative Review Tribunal under the Administrative Review Tribunal Act 2024 as noted in reg 11.31. They also make reference, in reg 5.04(2)(c)(iii), to appeals to the Federal Court and the Federal Circuit and Family Court of Australia (Division 2) against decisions of the Registrar under sections 67 and 68 of the Act, indicating that Registrar decisions sit within the wider judicial review and appeal architecture.
Interaction with the Public Service Act and SES definitions
In prescribing persons for office closure declarations and other operational staff matters, the Regulations reference the definition of SES employee in section 34 of the Public Service Act 1999 and its application via section 2B of the Acts Interpretation Act 1901 (reg 11.33(2) and note).
Interaction with other Commonwealth instruments
The Regulations cross‑reference the Protection of Word ‘Anzac’ Regulations and the Crimes (Currency) Act 1981 when prescribing designs that must be refused (reg 4.06(b)-(c)). They also reference the Olympic Insignia Protection Act 1987 with respect to delegation (reg 10.01(1)(b)).
Electronic transactions and the Electronic Transactions Act
The Regulations permit certain electronic submissions and electronic statutory declarations, referencing the Electronic Transactions Act 1999 for the form of electronic communications (reg 11.26(2) and note).
Interaction with Gazette and Official Journal systems
Notices of acquisition by the Commonwealth must be published in both the Official Journal and the Gazette (reg 8.01). The Registrar’s publication obligations are central to the interlocking public notice regime.
In short, the Regulations do not stand alone. They implement and elaborate provisions of the Designs Act, import concepts from international agreements for priority, preserve elements of the previous legislative regime for transitional matters, and sit within the broader administrative law and Commonwealth instrument framework. Where the Regulations reference other statutes or instruments, they do so to specify operational detail or to preserve continuity for transitional applications.
Amendment history
The Regulations themselves record a series of amendments and specify the temporal scope of those amendments. The most notable amendment instruments and their cited effects within these Regulations are as follows.
Raising the Bar amendments (2013): The Regulations record that amendments made by item 3 of Schedule 6 to the Intellectual Property Legislation Amendment (Raising the Bar) Regulation 2013 (No. 1) apply to hearings where the Registrar issues a hearing notice or invitation to be heard on or after 15 April 2013, with the sole exception of the insertion of new subregulation 11.22(1) (reg 12.05). That identifies a discrete cut‑over date for procedural changes to hearings.
Productivity Commission Response regulations (2018): Multiple amendments introduced by the Intellectual Property Laws Amendment (Productivity Commission Response Part 1 and Other Measures) Regulations 2018 are picked up and their transitional application is prescribed. Regulation 12.06 clarifies that changes to regs 3.14, 4.04, 4.05, 5.03, 5.04, 9.03, 9.05, 10.02, 11.03, 11.23 and 11.28 apply in relation to notifications occurring on or after the commencement of that part of the instrument, and provides transitional application where notices under subsection 66(2) of the Act or other specified notices were given before that commencement (reg 12.06(1)-(4)). Parts 3 and 9 of Schedule 2 to the instrument further amend material filing and evidence provisions, and regs 12.07 and 12.08 specify their commencement application.
Advisory Council on Intellectual Property Response (2021): The Designs Amendment (Advisory Council on Intellectual Property Response) Regulations 2021 introduced a set of changes affecting publication options and formal requirements. Regulation 12.09 lists application dates for the various deletions and substitutions in reg 3.02, reg 3.13, reg 3.14, reg 3.15 and parts of Chapter 4 and Chapter 11. Regulation 12.10 and 12.11 address priority date treatment and formal requirements changes, including transitional saving for existing approved forms.
Fee and Fee‑related amendments (2024): The Intellectual Property Legislation Amendment (Fee Amounts and Other Measures) Regulations 2024 amended Schedule 3 and the Regulations make clear in reg 12.12 that the Schedule 3 amendments apply in respect of proceedings that begin on or after the commencement of that instrument.
Transitional arrangements and savings
The Regulations include multiple transitional rules that make older forms continue to operate after amendment (reg 12.11(1)) and preserve old Regulations for aspects necessary to give effect to Part 2 of Chapter 12 of the Act (reg 12.02). They also specify which earlier versions of particular regulations continue to apply in relation to ongoing processes where notices were given before amendments (reg 12.06(2)-(3), reg 12.07(4)).
Record of specific textual insertions and repeals
Several parts of the Regulations record where specific subregulations have been repealed or substituted by later instruments, and they specify whether the amendment is prospective or retrospective for given filings. For example, reg 12.07(2) explicitly notes the repeal of certain regulatory items and that such repeals apply in relation to documents filed on or after the stated commencement.
Overall, the Regulations embed amendment history at the end (Chapter 12) and set precise commencement and transitional rules to identify which version applies to particular acts, filings and hearings. For practitioners, these transitional clauses are the source of which operative rule applies when an action crosses a changeover date.
Litigation history
The Regulations do not name any judicial decisions or reported litigation in their text. They do, however, identify adjudicative and review pathways that could be used in litigation or tribunal proceedings, and they reference the courts to which appeals from Registrar decisions may be brought.
Review and appeal pathways mentioned in the Regulations
Administrative Review Tribunal: Regulation 11.31 provides that a person may apply to the Administrative Review Tribunal for review of a Registrar decision under subparagraph 9.05(5)(c)(ii). The regulation adopts the Administrative Review Tribunal Act 2024’s definition of decision and requires the Registrar to notify affected persons that a review may be available. The Regulations therefore channel some Registrar decisions into the Administrative Review Tribunal’s review jurisdiction.
Federal courts for appeals: Regulation 5.04(2)(c)(iii) refers to the appeal route to the Federal Court and the Federal Circuit and Family Court of Australia (Division 2) against a decision of the Registrar under section 67 or 68 of the Act. This signals that decisions on examination and revocation that are finalised by the Registrar may be the subject of judicial review or appeal in federal courts where the Act and statute permit.
Registrar proceedings and costs
The Regulations provide for awards of costs by the Registrar in proceedings before the Registrar (reg 10.02) and specify taxation and allowable items in Schedule 3. While not litigation before courts, Registrar proceedings are adversarial administrative adjudications with procedural protections and costs consequences. The Regulations require notices and timeframes to apply for costs, and they allow taxation of costs by the Registrar.
No cases named
The text of the Regulations does not cite any cases, nor does it purport to summarise judicial interpretation. Accordingly, there is no internal record in these Regulations of litigation outcomes or precedent.
Practical implication for litigators and counsel
The Regulations set the procedural skeleton for Registrar determinations that can give rise to litigation. Where parties have had rights affected by the Registrar’s exercise of power, the text points to Tribunal review, and to appeals to federal courts in relation to particular sections of the Act, but it provides no substantive judicial interpretation. Practitioners must therefore consult case law external to these Regulations and the Act to understand judicial treatment of Registrar decisions, standing, procedural fairness, and the substantive standards applied by courts on appeal. That jurisprudence is not included in the Regulations themselves.
In sum, litigation history is not present in the text of these Regulations. The Regulations do, however, create the administrative pathways and timeframes that materially determine when and how disputes may reach tribunals and courts.
Gotchas
This section lists detail‑level traps and operational risks explicitly produced by the Regulations. Each item references the regulating provision so practitioners can locate the source.
Minimum filing date dependencies (regs 3.01, 3.05)
A filing date only exists when minimum filing requirements are met. Submitting a partial application or missing the representation requirement will mean no filing date (reg 3.01; reg 3.05). Applicants who rely on priority must ensure the Australian application meets the minimum at filing or risk losing the intended filing date.
Priority claim and copy deadline trap (reg 3.06(2)-(3))
A priority claim from a basic application only gives the earlier date if the Australian design application is filed within six months and any requested copy of the basic application is filed within two months of the Registrar’s request, otherwise reg 3.06(2) is taken not to apply to the design (reg 3.06(2)-(3)). Practically this means if the Registrar requests a copy and the applicant does not supply it within two months, priority may be lost.
Specimen and representation technicalities (regs 4.04(1)(e), 4.05(1)(e))
If a specimen is used, it must be mountable on A4, reproducible by photocopying/scanning/photography and storable without damaging other documents. The Registrar may require another representation if not satisfied (reg 4.04(2), 4.05(3)). Poorly prepared specimens risk formal defect notices and delays, and if not corrected may trigger lapsing timelines.
Scandalous matter and content check (regs 4.04(1)(aa), 4.05(1)(aa))
Applications containing scandalous matter or matter that might reasonably be taken to be scandalous can be rejected at the formalities stage (regs 4.04(1)(aa), 4.05(1)(aa)). Applicants should screen representations and statements to avoid this ground.
Consequences of fee non‑payment are mechanical and unforgiving (regs 11.02-11.09)
For many fees, the Registrar must invite payment within a set period and failure to pay within the follow‑up period causes an application to lapse or the filing to be treated as not filed (regs 11.02-11.06). Note the different prescribed follow‑up windows: some invitations allow two months after the invitation (reg 11.02(1)(b) etc.), some give 7 days (reg 11.03). The timing differences matter operationally.
Expedited dispatch requires separate fee and request (reg 11.09A)
If a party wishes materials supplied by the Registrar to be sent by expedited dispatch, a separate small fee must be paid and a specific request filed; otherwise expedited dispatch will not be provided (reg 11.09A). Failing to pay that small fee will delay receipt of documents even if the base request fee has been paid.
Document language and translation costs (reg 11.18)
Documents not in English must be accompanied by a translation with a certificate of verification. This is a direct compliance cost and potential delay for overseas filers. However, text forming part of a design is exempt from the translation requirement (reg 11.18(3)).
Agent signature and representation limits (reg 11.15)
Agents must note the principal’s name when signing. Non‑legal agents cannot prepare documents to be filed in court or transact court business (reg 11.15(3)). Using an agent who is not legally qualified to perform certain tasks may create procedural problems if court action becomes necessary.
Registrar delegation limits (reg 10.01)
The Registrar’s delegation power excludes some functions under paragraphs 127(1)(a) and (c) unless delegated to an Executive Level 1 or equivalent or higher employee (reg 10.01 note and subreg 10.01(2)). This may affect who can exercise summons or production powers.
Examination process timelines and third‑party material (regs 5.03-5.04)
The prescribed periods for completing examinations are tied to notifications and to later material provided by third parties; the later material can extend the period in which the Registrar must complete the examination (reg 5.04(2)). Parties may thus face uncertainty about timing once third parties enter the process.
Publication obligations and loss of confidentiality (regs 3.04, 3.12)
The details to be published for an application include applicant name, filing date and, if stated, the product related to the design (reg 3.04(1)). Applicants seeking confidentiality should note that the Official Journal disclosure rules will publicise certain details.
Register correction opposition window (reg 9.05(4)-(5))
If a proposed amendment would materially alter an entry, the Registrar must publish the proposal and allow a one month opposition window (reg 9.05(4)-(5)). A failure to monitor Official Journal notices can permit third parties to oppose changes, potentially blocking desired amendments.
Days office closed and emergency declarations (regs 11.33)
The definition of days when the office is not open is specific and includes weekends and particular public holidays; the regulation also specifies who can make declaration that a day is not open for business and how such declaration must be published (reg 11.33).
Extensions and opposition consequences (reg 11.13)
Applications for extensions of time have strict procedural requirements including an approved form and a declaration of grounds (reg 11.13(1)). If an opposition is filed, the Regulations prescribe that the Registrar must extend the time to include the period from the notice of opposition to the end of the review or a further fixed period (reg 11.13(1A)). The procedural complexity can generate trapped rights if opponents are not monitored.
Costs taxation and limited items (reg 10.02; Schedule 3)
The Registrar may only award costs in respect of matters mentioned in Schedule 3 (reg 10.02(3)), and taxation of costs is to be performed in accordance with Schedule 3 (reg 10.02(6)). Parties should study Schedule 3 to understand which items are taxable and the caps that apply.
Practitioners should map these “gotchas” to their internal filing, fee and docketing systems and build checks around translation, specimen preparation, fee deadlines and Official Journal monitoring.
How to comply
This checklist gives a practical, regulation‑based compliance workflow for applicants, registered owners and their advisers.
Pre‑filing and filing
Establish the filing strategy and priority: If claiming priority from a basic application, ensure the Australian application will be filed within six months of that basic application and be prepared to file a copy of the basic application if requested by the Registrar within two months of any request (reg 3.06(2)-(3)). For multiple basic applications, refer to reg 3.06(5) for earliest date application rules.
Prepare the minimum filing package: Ensure the application clearly indicates it is a design application, includes identity and contact information for the applicant, and contains a representation of each design disclosed (reg 3.01). Confirm that the application complies with reg 11.18 about language and translations, and that the chosen method of filing is noted because fees differ by filing method (reg 11.01 and Schedule 4 item 1).
Verify representations and specimens: If using specimens, ensure they are mountable on A4, storable without damage, and easily reproducible by standard means (regs 4.04(1)(e), 4.05(1)(e)). Avoid text or images that could be characterised as scandalous (regs 4.04(1)(aa), 4.05(1)(aa)).
Fee payment and docketing
Pay the correct fee at filing and record fee payment dates as triggers for follow‑up. If the fee is not paid, the Registrar will invite payment and failure to pay within the prescribed follow‑up window can cause lapse or the filing to be treated as not filed (regs 11.02-11.06). Note differences: some follow‑ups give two months, one gives seven days (reg 11.03).
If expedited dispatch for supplied documents is needed, file the request and pay the small additional fee specified in Schedule 4 item 15 (reg 11.09A).
Translations and non‑English materials
If any filing contains non‑English material other than design text, obtain a verified translation and certificate of verification to be lodged with the document (reg 11.18(2)). For documents filed in electronic form, ensure the approved electronic methods are used where the Registrar permits electronic statutory declarations and communications (reg 11.26(2) and reg 1.06).
Responding to Registrar notifications and formalities checks
Monitor Official Journal and Registrar notifications closely. If the Registrar requests a substitute representation or direction to file additional documents, comply within the time allowed or request an extension under reg 11.13 with necessary supporting declaration (reg 3.09(2), reg 5.05(1)(e), reg 11.13).
If the Registrar gives a notification under subsection 66(2) in an examination, respond either by contest in writing or by requesting amendment of the Register, ensuring that any response meets reg 5.03(3) and reg 5.05(1) requirements.
Examination and hearings
When requesting examination or when responding to a third‑party request for examination, ensure duplicate copies of material on newness and distinctiveness are filed where required (reg 5.01; reg 5.08). Keep track of the prescribed periods in reg 5.04 for completion of examination and plan for potential extensions if third parties provide material.
If a hearing is invited or required, note the Registrar’s minimum notice periods for written submissions (at least 10 business days, reg 11.23(1)(a)) and oral hearing notice (at least 10 business days, reg 11.23(2)). Ensure hearing fees are paid in advance per reg 11.01 and Schedule 4 items 11-12.
Register maintenance and transfers
For changes of ownership, file requests in the approved form accompanied by satisfactory evidence of assignment or devolution within one month of the notification under paragraph 114(3)(a) (reg 9.03). For correction of clerical errors, file in approved form; be prepared for the Registrar to publish any materially altering amendments and for one month opposition window (reg 9.05(2)-(5)).
Extensions, oppositions and review
For extension of time applications under section 137, file in approved form with a declaration of grounds (reg 11.13(1)). Monitor the Official Journal for advertisement of extension applications; oppositions must be filed within one month of advertisement (reg 11.13(2)-(3)). If an opposition is filed, be ready for the extension to include the period of opposition as set out in reg 11.13(1A).
If subject to an adverse discretionary decision, request the Registrar to allow written submissions or an oral hearing per regs 11.22-11.23 and, where appropriate, note that certain Registrar decisions are reviewable by the Administrative Review Tribunal per reg 11.31.
Practical controls and internal process
Implement a docketing system that tracks the varied follow‑up windows set out in regs 11.02-11.09, reg 3.06(3), reg 5.04, and the renewal window in reg 4.09(1).
Use checklists for specimen preparation, translation requirements and the content of approved forms to avoid procedural returns or treatment as not filed (regs 4.04, 11.18, 11.27).
Consider using registered patent attorneys who have lien rights for client files and property as provided in reg 11.16, but ensure any agent acting is compliant with the agent signing rule and does not purport to perform prohibited court tasks (reg 11.15).
Cost and budgeting controls
Budget for the specified fees in Schedule 4 and for potential additional fees such as late renewal monthly surcharges (Schedule 4 item 5). Account for the possibility of cost awards and taxable costs per Schedule 3 if involved in Registrar proceedings (reg 10.02; Schedule 3).
This practical compliance checklist, tied to the cited Regulations, should reduce procedural risk and provide a deterministic method for filings, responses and maintenance of design rights.
Note 1: For signatories to the Paris Convention for the Protection of Industrial Property, see www.wipo.int.
Note 2: For full members of the World Trade Organization, see www.wto.org.
1.06 Giving of documents by Registrar
1.06 Giving of documents by Registrar
(1) For these Regulations, the Registrar may give a document to a person by:
(a) making the document available to the person in an electronic form; and
(b) notifying the person that the document is available.
(2) If the Registrar gives a document to a person, the document is taken to have been given to the person on the day the document is dated by the Registrar.
Chapter 3—Design applications
Part 3.2 —Applications
Part 3.2—Applications
3.01 Minimum filing requirements
3.01 Minimum filing requirements
For subsection 21(2) of the Act, each of the following requirements is prescribed:
(a) the application must include information that indicates that what is filed is intended to be a design application;
(b) the application must include information that:
(i) allows the identity of the applicant to be established; and
(ii) allows the applicant to be contacted;
(c) the application must include a representation, or information that appears to be a representation, of each design.
3.02 Applications covering excluded designs
3.02 Applications covering excluded designs
For subsection 23(2) of the Act, the prescribed period:
(a) begins immediately after the Registrar has received the request to amend the initial application under section 28 of the Act to exclude the excluded design or designs; and
(b) ends immediately before the earlier of:
(i) the lapse or withdrawal of the initial application; and
(ii) the registration of a design disclosed in the initial application.
3.04 Publication of receipt of application
3.04 Publication of receipt of application
(1) For section 25 of the Act, the details prescribed in relation to each design application that meets the minimum filing requirements are the following details for each design disclosed in the application:
(a) the design number;
(b) the name of the applicant or the entitled person;
(c) the filing date of the application;
(d) if applicable:
(i) details about any basic application made in respect of the design; and
(ii) the design number that was allocated to the excluded design in the initial application;
(e) if stated in the application—the product or products to which the design relates.
Note: For a design application in respect of a design excluded from certain transitional applications, see also regulation 12.03.
(2) The Registrar must publish the details in the Official Journal.
3.05 Filing date
3.05 Filing date
For section 26 of the Act, the filing date of a design application is the day when the application meets the minimum filing requirements.
Note: For the filing date of a converted application, see section 160 of the Act.
3.06 Priority date—designs disclosed in basic applications
3.06 Priority date—designs disclosed in basic applications
(1) In this regulation:
basic application, in respect of a design, means an application for protection of the design, being an application that is made in a Convention country in accordance with these Regulations.
(2) For the purposes of paragraph 27(1)(b) of the Act, if the design application is filed within 6 months after the date on which the basic application was made, the prescribed date is the day when the basic application was made.
(3) If a copy of the basic application is not filed within 2 months after the Registrar has made a request (if any) for a copy, subregulation (2) is taken not to apply to the design.
Note: Under regulation 11.18, a document that is not in English must be accompanied by a verified translation.
(4) For paragraph 27(1)(b) of the Act, if subregulation (2) does not apply to the design, the prescribed date is the filing date of the design application.
(5) If 2 or more basic applications have been made in 1 or more Convention countries, a reference to the basic application in subregulation (2) is taken to be a reference to the earlier or earliest of those applications.
Note: Certain applications are to be disregarded for the purpose of this regulation—see regulation 3.07.
(6) For subregulation (1), an application for protection in respect of a design is made in a Convention country:
(a) if:
(i) an application for protection in respect of the design has been made under the Hague Agreement Concerning the International Deposit of Industrial Designs, done at The Hague on 6 November 1925; and
(ii) the application sought protection in the Convention country; or
(b) if:
(i) an application for protection in respect of the design has been made under the Benelux Designs Convention, done at Brussels on 25 October 1966 (the Benelux Convention); and
(ii) the Convention country is a State (however described) that has consented to be bound by the Benelux Convention and for which the Benelux Convention is in force; or
(c) if:
(i) an application for protection in respect of the design has been made under the terms of the Treaty Establishing the European Community, done at Rome on 25 March 1957; and
(ii) the Convention country is a State (however described) that has consented to be bound by the Treaty and for which the Treaty is in force.
Note: For the priority date of a converted application, see section 160 of the Act.
3.07 Certain basic applications to be disregarded
3.07 Certain basic applications to be disregarded
(1) This regulation applies if:
(a) an application for protection in respect of a design has been made in a Convention country in accordance with these Regulations; and
(b) the application has been withdrawn, abandoned or refused without becoming open to public inspection; and
(c) the application has not been used as the basis for claiming a right of priority in a Convention country under the law of that country corresponding to regulation 3.06; and
(d) a later application for protection in respect of the design has been made by the same applicant in the Convention country in which the earlier application was made.
(2) The applicant may request the Registrar to disregard the earlier application for the purpose of identifying the basic application referred to in subregulation 3.06(2).
(3) If the applicant makes a request under subregulation (2):
(a) the Registrar must disregard the earlier application for that purpose; and
(b) neither the applicant nor any other person is capable of making use of the earlier application for that purpose.
3.08 Priority date—excluded designs
3.08 Priority date—excluded designs
For paragraph 27(1)(c) of the Act, the priority date of a design that is an excluded design is the same priority date as it had under the initial application.
Note: This regulation also applies to a design excluded from certain transitional applications, see regulation 12.03.
Part 3.3 —Amendment or withdrawal of applications
Part 3.3—Amendment or withdrawal of applications
3.09 Request for amendment of application
3.09 Request for amendment of application
(1) For subsection 28(2) of the Act, the request must:
(a) be in writing; and
(b) be clear that an amendment of a design application is being requested; and
(c) set out the nature and extent of the proposed amendments; and
(d) be accompanied by:
(i) a substitute document or representation incorporating the proposed amendments; or
(ii) a statement setting out the proposed amendments and the place at which each amendment is proposed to be made.
(2) If the request is not accompanied by a substitute document or representation incorporating the proposed amendments, the applicant must, if directed by the Registrar, file a substitute document or representation within the time allowed by the Registrar.
3.10 Disputes between applicants—requests for determinations
3.10 Disputes between applicants—requests for determinations
For subsection 29(2) of the Act, a request must:
(a) be made in the approved form; and
(b) include a statement of the grounds on which the request is made.
3.11 Requests for direction specifying persons as applicants or entitled persons
3.11 Requests for direction specifying persons as applicants or entitled persons
For subsection 30(4) of the Act, a request must:
(a) be made in the approved form; and
(b) include a statement of the grounds on which the request is made.
3.12 Publication of certain details of amended applications
3.12 Publication of certain details of amended applications
(1) This regulation applies in relation to a design application if, as a result of the design application having been amended under Part 3 of Chapter 3 of the Act, any of the details published under section 25 of the Act in relation to the application has changed.
(2) For section 31 of the Act, the details prescribed are the following details for each design in relation to which the published details has changed:
(a) the design number;
(b) for each detail that has changed—the detail as amended.
3.13 Withdrawal of designs and design applications
3.13 Withdrawal of designs and design applications
(1) For subsection 32(1) of the Act, the prescribed period:
(a) begins immediately after the design application is filed; and
(b) ends immediately before a design disclosed in the design application is registered.
(2) For subsection 32(2) of the Act, the prescribed period:
(a) begins immediately after the design application is filed; and
(b) ends immediately before the design to be withdrawn is registered.
(3) If a design is withdrawn, including a design disclosed in a design application that is withdrawn, the Registrar must publish the design number in the Official Journal.
Part 3.4 —Lapsing of applications
Part 3.4—Lapsing of applications
3.14 Period within which application lapses
3.14 Period within which application lapses
For the purposes of subsection 33(1) of the Act, the prescribed period is 2 months from the date of the first notification given by the Registrar under section 41 of the Act in relation to the design or designs in respect of which registration is requested.
3.15 Notice of lapsing of design application
3.15 Notice of lapsing of design application
For subsection 33(4) of the Act, the notice must:
(a) be published in the Official Journal; and
(b) include the design number for each design disclosed in the application that has not been registered.
Chapter 4—Registration of designs
Part 4.2 —Requests for registration
Part 4.2—Requests for registration
4.01 Requests for registration
4.01 Requests for registration
(2) For paragraph 35(2)(b) of the Act, the prescribed period is:
(a) 6 months from the priority date of the design; or
(b) if the design is a design mentioned in section 55 of the Act, and the period of 6 months has expired when an application is filed as mentioned in that section—the day when the application is filed.
(3) For subsection 35(3) of the Act, the request must be made in the approved form.
Part 4.3 —Registration
Part 4.3—Registration
4.04 Formalities check—applications in respect of 1 design only
4.04 Formalities check—applications in respect of 1 design only
(1) For paragraph 39(2)(a) of the Act, the formalities check is confirmation, by the Registrar, that:
(a) the design application is in the approved form; and
(aa) the design application does not contain any scandalous matter or matter that might reasonably be taken to be scandalous; and
(b) the design application meets the requirements of regulation 11.18; and
(c) the design application identifies the product or products in relation to which the design is sought to be registered sufficiently to enable each product to be classified in accordance with the Locarno Agreement; and
(d) for a design application mentioned in subsection 23(2) of the Act—the design application identifies the design number that was allocated to the excluded design in the initial application; and
(e) if a specimen is filed as a representation of the design—the specimen is of a kind that:
(i) can be readily mounted in a flat position by affixing it to a paper of international sheet size A4; and
(ii) can be stored without damage to other documents; and
(iii) when mounted, is presented in a way that allows any number of copies of the specimen to be reproduced directly by photocopying, digital scanning, microfilming and photography; and
(f) the design application includes at least one representation of the design.
Note: For a design application in respect of a design excluded from certain transitional applications, see also regulation 12.03.
(2) If the Registrar is not satisfied with the matter mentioned in paragraph (1)(e), the Registrar may, in giving a notification under section 41 of the Act, require the applicant to file another representation that complies with the paragraph.
4.05 Formalities check—applications in respect of more than 1 design
4.05 Formalities check—applications in respect of more than 1 design
(1) For paragraph 40(2)(c) of the Act, the formalities check is confirmation, by the Registrar, that:
(a) the design application is in the approved form; and
(aa) the design application does not contain any scandalous matter or matter that might reasonably be taken to be scandalous; an
This is an opening excerpt, not the complete document.