IP Australia has released a consultation paper for the expanded use of automated processes designed to make IP systems more efficient for users.
“I am pleased to announce that IP Australia is investigating ways to align and streamline processes, improve service delivery and reduce unnecessary delays," said Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister for Industry and Science, Karen Andrews.
“Many tasks like renewals of a right, issuing directions or registry entries that currently require manual processing are proposed to be automated as part of this reform.
“We are undertaking this consultation as part of a proposal to extend our use of automated processes to make simple decisions and undertake actions involving no exercise of judgment,” said Mrs Andrews.
The Government says it will consider stakeholders input from the consultation process before releasing a draft bill of the legislative changes for public comment.
“We intend to introduce the bill to Parliament in late 2015," said Mrs Andrews. “This is an important step in making administration of IP Australia’s systems more efficient for users. I encourage interested parties to take up this opportunity to contribute their ideas by 15 July 2015.”
The consultation paper will be available on IP Australia’s website including details of how to make a submission.