Registering an expired business name

Hi folks.

I am in the process of starting a new eCommerce business. So far everything is going to plan, with one exception. The 'trading as' name I would like to use appears to have been claimed in Queensland , though as far as I can tell, it isn't actually being used

Originally registered in 1993, the registration is due for renewal later this year. Because I can't find any activity, I'm hoping that the current owner won't bother re-registering. If this happens, can I immediately apply to register the name?

Fingers crossed somebody can help!

Steve

 

Steve

Before waiting for the business name rego to expire, you should do a search on IP Australia - Welcome to the home page of IP Australia and see if the name is trademarked. If not trademark it in the appropriate catergory(ies).

The following article explains it really nicely:

Business Name Trademark - check for trademarks BEFORE registering in Australia

If you want the name fight for it using a trade mark and a letter from your solicitor. That would encourage the current QLD business name holder NOT to re-register.

For anyone interested in learning more about IP for your business (expecially for web based businesses) Stratacore is running a training day on the Gold Coast next week Thursday 4th of March. Cost is extremely reasonable for $88 per person. More information here:
Stratacore

Contact me for further details.

SM

 

Hi SM
Thanks for the advice. I'll give it some thought. I'm a little wary of flagging my interest in the business name, because it might persuade the current owner to re-register and then try to sell the rights to me, if that's possible - like a domain name 'web squatter'.

I think claiming the trademark is good avice, too.

Cheers

Steve