LAW7119

Patents, trade secrets and allied rights

(LAW)

Dr Louise Duncan

Synopsis: The Australian patent system and the action of breach of confidence. History and rationale of the patent system. The concept of invention; the requirements for patentability; patent application procedure; the drafting of claims; the enforcement, maintenance and exploitation of patents, and the international patent system. The nature and scope of protection accorded to confidential information and the relationship between patent and trade secrets protection. Allied forms of protection including plant breeders0 rights and utility models.

Assessment: Research assignment (3500 words): 45% + Take home exam (3500 words): 45% + Class participation: 10%