Trade Mark Examiner - Affirmative Measures (Indigenous)

IP Australia; Sydney; Hybrid; AUD 90,000 - 120,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

15.4% superannuation contributions

Salary packaging options

Family-friendly policies

Job summary

IP Australia is seeking Trade Mark Examiners to assess applications under the Trade Marks Act 1995, conduct research and apply legal tests, liaising with customers, IP professionals and the public to ensure robust IP rights.

Examiners start at TM1 (APS Level 4.2) and progress through a training program to TM4 (APS Level 5.1) with emphasis on time management and clear communication; hybrid work arrangements are available nationwide.

Qualifications

• Exceptional time management skills.
• High level of digital literacy.
• Clear, concise written and oral communication skills.

Responsibilities

• Liaise with customers, IP professionals and the public to ensure robust IP rights.
• Assess trade mark applications under the Trade Marks Act 1995.
• Conduct research using online resources and databases; apply legal tests and principles.
• Progress through the TM training program from TM1 to TM4.
• Analyse information and make informed decisions using data and technology.

Skills

Decision making

Clear communication

Time management

Digital literacy

Analytical thinking

Adaptability

Team collaboration

Data and tech usage

Listening

Education

Any degree acceptable

Job description

Trade Mark Examiners assess trade mark applications to determine if they meet the requirements for registration under the Trade Marks Act 1995.

Trade Mark Examiners conduct research using online resources, analyse and interpret information, and apply legal tests and principles to assess whether a trade mark is registrable. Examination research tools are primarily electronic and include internal and external databases and procedural manuals. Trade Mark Examiners are required to apply and interpret the relevant legislation and court decisions.

As an Examiner, you will liaise closely with customers (including businesses and individuals), IP professionals, and the general public, to ensure the delivery of robust intellectual property rights. Examiners must also have exceptional time management skills, high levels of digital literacy, as well as clear, concise and logical written and oral communication skills.

Trade Mark Examiners commence as an TM1 (equivalent to an APS Level 4.2) but progress quickly through the training program to an TM4 (equivalent to an APS Level 5.1) You can find a detailed description of what is expected at these classifications in IP Australia’s capability framework.

Trade Mark Examiners assess trade mark applications to determine if they meet the requirements for registration under the Trade Marks Act 1995.

Trade Mark Examiners conduct research using online resources, analyse and interpret information, and apply legal tests and principles to assess whether a trade mark is registrable. Examination research tools are primarily electronic and include internal and external databases and procedural manuals. Trade Mark Examiners are required to apply and interpret the relevant legislation and court decisions.

As an Examiner, you will liaise closely with customers (including businesses and individuals), IP professionals, and the general public, to ensure the delivery of robust intellectual property rights. Examiners must also have exceptional time management skills, high levels of digital literacy, as well as clear, concise and logical written and oral communication skills.

Trade Mark Examiners commence as an TM1 (equivalent to an APS Level 4.2) but progress quickly through the training program to an TM4 (equivalent to an APS Level 5.1) You can find a detailed description of what is expected at these classifications in IP Australia’s capability framework.

The key duties of the position include:

A good Trade Mark Examiner is curious, enjoys continuous learning, can communicate and apply legal concepts fairly and consistently, and uses information, data and technology to make sound decisions.

We are looking for people who:

• Can analyse information, use sound judgement and make informed decisions
• Can communicate information clearly and effectively, both in writing and when speaking with others
• Can organise their work, manage competing priorities and pay attention to detail
• Are adaptable and able to respond positively to changing circumstances
• Are open to feedback and committed to learning and developing new skills
• Listen carefully, ask questions and seek to understand different perspectives
• Are comfortable using data, digital systems and technology to research information, solve problems and support decision-making
• Build positive working relationships and work effectively with others

We value a degree in any discipline, but this is not essential.

Looking for more information?

Our candidate kit contains details including the capabilities required, the contact officer, eligibility requirements and how to apply.

Please click ‘Apply’ to access the candidate kit.

Eligibility

Affirmative Measures eligibility

The filling of this vacancy is intended to constitute an affirmative measure under Section 26 of the Australian Public Service Commissioner's Directions 2022. This vacancy is open only to Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander people.

To become a Trade Mark Examiner, you must:

• be an Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander person
• be able to provide documentation as evidence to confirm your Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander heritage (evidence will only be required for candidates progressing to interview and must be provided on or before the scheduled interview date)
• be an Australian citizen at the time of application.

General eligibility

Under section 22(8) of thePublic Service Act 1999, employees must be Australian citizens to be employed in the Australian Public Service (APS).

All applicants offered employment will be required to successfully undergo a pre-engagement screening check, even if they have a security clearance. The screening check involves reviewing your background & personal circumstances to minimise risks in giving access to IP Australia information/resources. This screening check is conducted in accordance with the Australian Government Protective Security Policy Framework requirements.

The successful applicant must be willing to disclose all relevant and required information.

Notes

At the end of the recruitment process, a merit pool of suitable candidates may be created. Those found suitable will be advised that they have been placed in the pool. The merit pool is valid for 18 months from the date the process was advertised. The merit pool may be used throughout the period to fill similar positions in the event positions become vacant.

IP Australia acknowledges that those with diverse experiences, perspectives, and backgrounds enhance our workplace and our capability for innovation. Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander People, People with Disability and LGBTIQA+ people are encouraged to apply for any advertised position, that they may be suitable for, within IP Australia.

IP Australia embraces flexibility, including hours and location. Most of our roles can be done from anywhere in Australia, as long as you have reliable internet connection and an appropriate office set-up. We have offices in Canberra (Ngunnawal Country) and Melbourne (Naarm Country) for employees who are located within a reasonable distance to the office and most employees work a mixture of days in the office and days from home.We have a shared hub in Sydney (Gadigal Country). Employees who are not located near an office, work completely remotely.

Getting to know the IP Australia

IP Australia is the Australian Government agency that drives innovation by administering intellectual property (IP) rights, including patents, trade marks, designs, and plant breeder’s rights. Our mission is simple: to help Australians turn great ideas into reality through a world-class IP system that fuels creativity, investment, and economic growth. Working with us means being part of a team that influences global IP frameworks, supports trade agreements, and educates businesses and individuals on the value of IP. We’re not just about protecting ideas—we’re about enabling innovation that benefits everyone. At IP Australia, we foster an inclusive and diverse culture where every individual feels respected and valued. We believe that diversity drives innovation, and we are committed to creating a workplace where everyone can thrive and reach their full potential. We understand the importance of flexibility and wellbeing. That’s why we offer hybrid work arrangements, flexible hours, and programs to support mental health and overall wellbeing. Our focus on psychological safety ensures that employees feel secure and supported in their roles. Professional growth is a priority for us. We provide opportunities for skill development, education support, and clear pathways for career progression. Whether you’re starting your career or looking to advance, IP Australia offers the tools and resources to help you succeed.

Our benefits are designed to support your lifestyle and future.

• 15.4% superannuation contributions
• salary packaging options
• family-friendly policies

We make sure our employees are well taken care of. Finally, integrity is at the heart of everything we do. We uphold the highest standards of fairness and respect, maintaining a workplace built on trust and collaboration. At IP Australia, you’ll be part of an organisation that values both people and purpose.

Be careful - Don’t provide your bank or credit card details when applying for jobs. Don't transfer any money or complete suspicious online surveys. If you see something suspicious, report this job ad .