IP, Technology & Data Protection Lawyers Australia
Summary
Astris Law advises Australian businesses on intellectual property protection and technology law, including trademark registration under the Trade Marks Act 1995, copyright and patent strategy, Privacy Act 1988 compliance, data breach notification, SaaS agreements, AI governance frameworks and trade secret enforcement.
Overview
In the digital economy, intellectual property and data are among a business's most valuable assets. Astris Law can help clients protect, commercialise and enforce their IP rights while navigating Privacy Act requirements, APP compliance and emerging data protection frameworks. From trademark registration to AI governance, we can provide comprehensive support for innovation-driven enterprises.
How We Help
Astris Law advises Brisbane businesses on intellectual property protection, technology transactions and data privacy compliance. Whether you are registering a trademark under the Trade Marks Act 1995, negotiating a SaaS agreement, or building a compliance framework under the Privacy Act 1988, we provide practical legal advice that protects your commercial position without slowing down innovation.
IP assets — trademarks, patents, copyright, trade secrets and confidential information — are often the most valuable things a business owns, yet they are frequently the least protected. We help Brisbane businesses identify, protect and enforce their IP rights, from initial registration through to Federal Court infringement proceedings. On the technology side, we draft and negotiate software licensing agreements, SaaS terms of service, development agreements and data processing contracts. For businesses dealing with the intersection of technology and regulation, we advise on Privacy Act compliance, Australian Privacy Principles obligations, notifiable data breach requirements and emerging AI governance frameworks.
Data privacy obligations apply to every Australian organisation with annual turnover exceeding $3 million, and to many smaller organisations that handle health or government records. The Privacy Act 1988 imposes specific requirements on how personal information is collected, used, stored and disclosed. Astris Law helps Brisbane businesses design privacy compliance frameworks that satisfy these obligations and respond effectively when breaches occur.
Common Situations
- You have discovered a competitor is using a brand name, logo or product design that is confusingly similar to your registered trademark
- Your business is entering into a SaaS agreement or technology licensing deal and you need the contract reviewed or negotiated
- A former employee or contractor has taken trade secrets or confidential information to a competing business
- You need to comply with the Privacy Act and Australian Privacy Principles, including implementing a privacy policy and data breach response plan
- Your business has suffered a data breach and you need to assess whether notification to the OAIC and affected individuals is required
- You are commercialising IP through licensing arrangements and need agreements that protect your rights while enabling the commercial relationship
Why Astris Law
As a boutique Brisbane firm, Astris Law provides direct access to the principal — not a junior solicitor learning on the job. For businesses where IP and data are core assets, that level of attention and expertise is essential.
What We Can Do
Our Special Interests
Key Legislation & Frameworks
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I register a trademark in Australia?
To register a trademark in Australia, you file an application with IP Australia specifying the mark and the classes of goods or services. IP Australia examines the application for compliance with the Trade Marks Act 1995, checks for conflicting marks and publishes it for opposition. Registration provides exclusive rights to use the mark for 10 years, renewable indefinitely.
What are my obligations under the Australian Privacy Act?
Under the Privacy Act 1988, organisations with annual turnover exceeding $3 million (and certain smaller organisations) must comply with the Australian Privacy Principles (APPs). Obligations include notifying individuals about data collection, using information only for disclosed purposes, securing personal information and notifying the OAIC of eligible data breaches.
What legal issues should I consider when developing AI technology in Australia?
AI development in Australia involves considerations around intellectual property ownership, data privacy and consent under the Privacy Act, algorithmic accountability, consumer protection under the Australian Consumer Law and emerging governance frameworks. Businesses should implement AI governance policies addressing bias, transparency and human oversight.
What should I do if someone infringes my trademark in Australia?
If someone infringes your registered trademark in Australia, you can send a cease and desist letter, file a complaint with the relevant online marketplace, apply for an injunction in the Federal Court or commence infringement proceedings. Remedies include injunctions, damages or an account of profits, delivery up of infringing goods and costs. Acting quickly is important to prevent ongoing damage to your brand.
What is a notifiable data breach under Australian law?
Under the Notifiable Data Breaches scheme in the Privacy Act 1988, an organisation must notify the OAIC and affected individuals if there is unauthorised access to, disclosure of, or loss of personal information that is likely to result in serious harm. Notification must occur as soon as practicable after the entity becomes aware of the breach. Failure to comply can result in significant civil penalties.
Insights & Publications
View all
Protecting Intellectual Property for Australian Startups
3 February 2026
For startups, intellectual property is often the most valuable asset. This article covers trademarks, patents, copyright, trade secrets and practical strategies for protecting IP from day one under Australian law.
Read more
Privacy Act Compliance for Australian Businesses: APPs, Data Breaches and Penalties
27 January 2026
The Privacy Act 1988 imposes obligations on Australian businesses regarding the collection, use, storage and disclosure of personal information. With the Notifiable Data Breaches scheme and increasing OAIC enforcement activity, compliance has never been more important.
Read more
What's in a Name? Digital Real Estate and the Value of Digital Naming Rights
20 January 2026
For decades there has been a quiet trend of market competition that few people understand. While Hans Christian Andersen's fable of 'the Emperor Has No Clothes' describes a conspicuous absence that everyone pretends not to see, digital naming rights are about an inconspicuous presence that only savvy players see, while everyone else is none the wiser.
Read moreIndustries We Serve in Intellectual Property, Technology & Data
Fintech
Innovative legal solutions for payment platforms, neobanks and financial technology disruptors.
Media & Entertainment
Legal services for media companies, content creators, broadcasters and entertainment businesses.
Crypto & Blockchain
Forward-thinking legal guidance for cryptocurrency exchanges, token projects and blockchain ventures.
Written by Jamie Nuich, Principal of Astris Law
Need a intellectual property, technology & data lawyer? Talk to Astris Law.
We work directly with directors on intellectual property, technology & data matters across Australia. No layers, no committees. One lawyer who understands your business completely.