Griffith Hack principal Kerry Dick talks road trips and AI

She has married her engineering background with IP law in "a perfect combination"

Griffith Hack principal Kerry Dick talks road trips and AI
Kerry Dick

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.

What made you choose a career in law?

As an engineer, I was always interested in new technology and problem solving, so a career that combines these aspects of engineering with the legal aspects of IP was just a perfect combination.

What's your favourite part of the job?

Definitely the people: both the people I work with and the clients.

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.

What is going on at the firm? Are there any new programs and initiatives that you’re particularly interested in?

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.

What in your opinion has been the most memorable event of your career?

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.

What should the profession focus more on?

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.

What are the challenges you expect in your practice, and in the business of law in general, going forward? What challenges are particularly pressing in the country’s legal industry?

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.

What are you looking forward to the most in the coming year?

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.