Essential IP Tips For Critical Minerals & Cleantech Innovations – First Steps

From lab to pilot: tips for start-ups and early-stage ventures

In the wake of the recent announcements, Australia is at a pivotal moment in clean technology development, driven by aligned international and domestic initiatives. In this series, our team explores the opportunities and steps companies need to be aware of to ensure they protect and maximise their intellectual property.

While the Australian Government's "Future Made in Australia" (FMA) agenda signals intent to transform the local cleantech manufacturing and value-add processing industries, the recent Australia–US Critical Minerals Agreement appears set to increase support.

Under the Agreement, which covers sustainable mineral processing, clean hydrogen, battery technologies and other areas, Australian suppliers of critical minerals will be treated as domestic suppliers under the U.S. Defense Production Act, unlocking US support and investment under programs like the Inflation Reduction Act (IRA).