Who owns copyright of my brand logo, graphics, copy and photos?
When you commission creative work – a logo, website, brochure, photoshoot or copywriting – it’s easy to assume you automatically own it because you paid for it. Unfortunately, that’s not always true.
In Australia, the creator automatically owns the copyright unless there’s a written agreement saying otherwise. So you need to talk to your designer, photographer, copywriter or illustrator about copyright before the project starts – and make sure it’s in writing.
Some professionals assign copyright to you automatically as part of their contract. Others license the work for limited use – for example, a one-off print run, or use on your website only. Some charge extra to transfer full ownership. It’s worth asking, because it affects what you can (and can’t) do with the work later.
Does copyright protect my logo, product name or business name?
Copyright is automatic in Australia, but it only protects original creative expression – not ideas, names, or simple shapes.
That means copyright can protect:
- Your logo design, business name and product names (if they’re unique and artistic work)
- Your marketing copy or taglines (as literary works)
- Photographs and illustrations
- Music, video, and website content
But it won’t protect a business name, product name or slogan on its own. Someone could still create a different logo with a similar concept, or a business name that sounds like yours, without breaching copyright – if their work was created independently.
For more detail, visit the Australian Copyright Council.
Are your brand assets protected?
Trademark design is worthwhile when investing in a great logo and identity — and the next step is protecting it properly.
Trademark registration goes further than copyright – it can protect:
- Business and product names
- Logos, taglines and symbols
- Distinctive packaging, colours or sounds
- Ask about copyright ownership – and get it in writing.
- Keep a copy of all agreements and invoices.
- Register your trademarks if your brand name, logo or tagline matter to your business.
You can register a trademark with IP Australia, giving you exclusive rights to use it in your industry and the ability to stop others using something confusingly similar.
Our advice
Before your next creative project:
Your brand is one of your most valuable assets. Protect it early to avoid expensive disputes later.
Love your brand? Let’s protect it properly. Call 3366 8166 or contact us today to secure your creative assets and peace of mind.