23 June 2020 | Wrays On 22 April 2020, IP Australia implemented a simplified system designed to assist IP owners meet deadlines that would otherwise be missed due to COVID-19. The system provides free extensions of time for up to three months for patents, trade marks and design matters, including extensions of time to file evidence in oppositions. To get an extension all that is required is a one-sentence declaration that the applicant is unable to meet the deadline due to disruptions from the COVID-19 pandemic. On 17 June 2020, IP Australia announced that the free extensions of time to assist customers impacted by the COVID-19 outbreak will be continued until 31 July 2020. IP Australia advised that this arrangement is temporary and its continuation is under regular review, taking into consideration the severity of the pandemic disruptions. If you have any questions regarding an extension of time for your application, please contact your patent or trade mark attorney at Wrays.