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The 19 January 2026 announcement of a new PCT pilot programme between IP Australia and the European Patent Office is an interesting development for innovators based in Australia. This initiative offers a direct and efficient path into the European market by allowing Australian applicants to select the EPO as their International Searching Authority from March 2026. The primary advantage lies in the early certainty it provides regarding patentability whilst also removing the need for a supplementary search during the regional phase. This route can significantly reduce overall prosecution costs and accelerate the grant process for businesses prioritising European protection.
It will be interesting to see how the Pilot Programme develops
but we hope this increased flexibility will be a welcome tool for
many as they refine their global IP strategies.
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