The Practice Pty Ltd v The Practice Business Advisers & Tax Practitioners Pty Ltd [2024] FCA 1299

Federal Court of Australia The Practice Pty Ltd v The Practice Business Advisers & Tax Practitioners Pty Ltd [2024] FCA 1299 File number(s):

Judgment of: O'CALLAGHAN J

Date of judgment: 12 November 2024

Catchwords: TRADE MARKS – infringement claim pursuant to s 120 of the Trade Marks Act 1995 (Cth) (the Act) – whether the respondent used the plain word mark THE PRACTICE as a trade mark – whether the respondent's marks are substantially identical with, or deceptively similar to, the applicant's mark – defence under s 122(1)(b)(i) of the Act – whether the respondent used its logo in good faith to indicate the kind, quality or intended purpose of the services it offers – defence under s 122(1)(f) or (fa) of the Act – whether the respondent would obtain registration of its logo under s 44(3)(a) or (b) of the Act — where respondent's use of its logo was not in good faith or honest due to inadequate searches – defences not made out – claim allowed – declaratory and injunctive relief granted — damages of $200,000 awarded, including $100,000 in additional damages

Legislation: Trade Marks Act 1995 (Cth) ss 10, 20, 44, 44(3), 44(3)(a), 44(3)(b), 120(1), 120(2), 122, 122(1), 122(1)(b)(i), 122(1)(f), 122(1)(fa)

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