How Do I Copyright a Name? What You Need to Know
By IP Team
Many people wonder if they can copyright a name to protect their brand or identity. Under Australian law, copyright alone may not protect names, titles, slogans, or short phrases. Instead, if you’re looking to protect a name, you should consider registering a trademark. Here’s a breakdown of how you can safeguard your name.
1. Copyright vs. Trademark: What’s the Difference?
In Australia, copyright protects original works like literary, artistic, musical, and dramatic works. Copyright automatically applies to these works when they are created, but it does NOT extend to names.
Copyright: Protects creative works (e.g., books, music, art).
Trademark: Protects names, logos, and other brand identifiers.
2. How to Protect a Name: Trademarking
To protect a name for business or brand purposes, you’ll need to apply for a trademark. A registered trademark gives you exclusive rights to use the name in connection with your goods or services.
Steps to trademark a name:
Conduct a thorough trademark search to ensure your name is unique or being registered.
Choose the appropriate trademark classes for your business.
Easily lodge a trademark application online with Trademarkability, a user-friendly platform designed to simplify the application process.
3. Why Register a Trademark for a Name?
Having a registered trademark for your name ensures legal protection. It prevents others from using the same or a similar name in your industry, which could confuse customers and dilute your brand identity.
Tip: Use Trademarkability to easily monitor and manage your trademark application, ensuring you stay informed of any potential issues or infringements.
Conclusion:
While you may not be able to copyright a name in Australia, you can protect it through trademark registration. By trademarking your name with Trademarkability, you ensure that your brand is safeguarded and that you have exclusive rights to its use in your industry.