She has married her engineering background with IP law in "a perfect combination"
Kerry Dick had a background as an engineer, and she took it to a new level when she opted to take up IP law. The Griffith Hack principal has chosen to concentrate on mechanical engineering, particularly automotive design, in her practice, which has resulted her rubbing shoulders with leading car manufacturers worldwide.
In this interview, Dick shares why she’s motivated by new inventions and talks about going on an especially memorable product launch.
Engaging with clients and learning about their new inventions is really motivating. Hearing about their drivers and their journey towards creating a viable new product provides context and scope for the types of IP protection needed. The trials and hard work involved in conceiving, developing, and perfecting an invention are what we aim to protect. Watching these ideas take shape and become commercial realities is one of the most rewarding aspects of the job.
I am interested in AI and how it will contribute and shape the way we practice in the future. There are some really big opportunities associated with this technology, but there are also a number of aspects that require consideration and careful management for any successful implementation.
I have fond memories of product launches and road trips from my time in the car industry. The one that resonates was a three-week tour of the UAE and Oman with the V8 racing school team from Norwell, to launch the new (at the time) VE Commodore and Chevrolet Camaro.
The industry is facing many challenges today, but I am sure that every practitioner has said that every year! Working closely with your clients, understanding their needs, and being able to adapt your services to provide quality and value will always be a solid point of focus.
I specialise in the patents and designs sector, where significant changes are on the horizon. Following open consultations in 2023, IP Australia plans to introduce new protections for virtual, partial, and incremental designs. These updates will align Australian practices with those of its trading partners and expand the opportunities and scope of protection for Australian designers. However, the new laws and regulations will also bring challenges in interpreting and applying the new legislation.
The year ahead holds some big opportunities for a number of clients I work with. All at different stages of their IP journey, one is taking their first big leap into the international arena, two embarking on joint ventures with industry partners and others venturing into entirely new fields of practice. There will certainly be challenges ahead, but 2025 is looking like a great year.