#3: Making sense of patents and protecting your invention

How patents work and when protection may be right for you. In this episode, patent examiners Samantha Saals and Lachlan Lo from IP Australia join host Lisa Cohen (Director of Public Education) to explain how patents can help protect inventions and support business growth. Whether you're developing a new product, process or technology, you’ll learn what patents are, how they can give you a competitive edge, and how to determine whether patent protection is right for your business. The episode also explores iconic Australian inventions – such as Wi-Fi, polymer banknotes and the cochlear implant – and the role patents played in their development and success. In this episode, we explore:(02:08) what patents are and how they work (05:58) what makes an invention patentable (07:47) the value of confidentiality and non-disclosure agreements (NDAs) (09:32) the role and benefits of provisional patent applications (10:31) checking novelty and understanding your protection options (18:45) the benefits of an international type search (23:16) costs, risks and considerations when applying for a patent (25:44) understanding claims in patent applications (27:03) things to do before applying for a patent. Further reading:History of innovation in Australia Patents Case Studies International Intellectual Property The Patent Cooperation Treaty Patent cost and timings Australian IP Report 2025 Tools to explore:Patent Case Management Service Patent search tools – Australian Patent Search, Google Patents, Espacenet – Patent Search Get a free consultation with IPTA Non-Disclosure Contract Generator IP Australia First Response Small Business, Big Dreams factsheet For general enquiries about intellectual property, 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.