#1: Introduction to Intellectual Property (IP) and why it matters to small business

Learn how intellectual property (IP) can help protect and grow your small business.  In this episode, Nabil Ilahee and Keeley Pasfield from IP Australia join host Lisa Cohen (Director of Public Education) to introduce the world of intellectual property.   You’ll learn how patents, trade marks, design rights and plant breeder’s rights can help protect your brand, build business value and support sustainable growth, sharing practical insights and real world examples.  Tune in to take the first step toward protecting your competitive advantage and making informed IP decisions.In this episode, we explore:(01:55) - what is intellectual property, and how can it support your competitive advantage   (06:10) - how to identify your IP assets (12:11) - benefits of intellectual property rights for businesses (16:30) - risks of not securing IP rights (22:45) - when to apply for IP rights (24:33) - length of protection of different IP rights (26:35) - infringement and enforcement of IP rights (28:26) - key takeaways for getting started.Further reading: IP Basics Factsheets Small Business Case Studies Australian IP Report 2025Tools to explore: Choosing the right IP tool Non-Disclosure Contract Generator TM Checker: Free trade mark availability check Australian Patent Search Australian Design Search Australian Plant Breeder's Rights Search Trans-Tasman IP Attorneys Regulation IP Australia First Response Small Business, Big Dreams brochure For general enquiries about IP, call 1300 651 010 or email [email protected]  Disclaimer: The content shared in this podcast is intended only to provide generalised information about intellectual property principles, and is not to be taken as legal, business or other professional advice. We do not accept legal responsibility regarding the accuracy and reliability of the information provided, and if you require guidance specific to your situation, you should consider seeking professional advice.