IP Australia Patents Manual Update - March 2026

Overview

A response to this consultation detailing the outcomes and reasoning is available.

Thank you to all who contributed and provided submissions to our consultation.

IP Australia sought feedback on significant updates to the Patent Manual of Practice and Procedure relating to computer-implemented inventions. 

The updates reflect the Full Federal Court’s decision in Aristocrat Technologies Australia Pty Ltd v Commissioner of Patents [2025] FCAFC 131.  

Following valuable stakeholder input, IP Australia significantly refreshed the Patent Manual of Practice and Procedure on 16 March 2026 to ensure our practice and the Manual reflect the law regarding computer implemented inventions. This consultation on the changes was opened at the same time.    

The updates bring the Full Court’s reasoning into focus, to distinguish between an invention that may be a mere manipulation of an abstract idea on a computer, and the implementation of an abstract idea that produces an artificial state of affairs and useful result. 

Given the strong interest in this matter, this consultation process aimed to ensure transparency and greater opportunities for stakeholders to provide feedback.     

All feedback received will be considered, and where appropriate inform future changes.  

We welcome additional feedback on our practice and the Manual at any time — contact our Quality and Examination Practice Team (QEP) via email at MDB-QEP@ipaustralia.gov.au.   

All submissions to this consultation will be considered public unless marked as confidential.

Consultation concluded at 11:59PM 17th May, 2026.