Case Theory:

Paul is about to graduate from university completing a Bachelor of Design in Visual Communication. Whilst he was studying he had completed some design work for a medium size company. He is unsure about the direction of his future career: will he try and find full-time employment; or try to establish his own business; or maybe join with two other colleagues from university and start a business together.

Paul is aware of some of the intellectual property rights but does not know where to start when setting up his own business.

Guiding Points:

1. The difference between an employee and an independent contractor and who normally would own any intellectual property rights.

2. What intellectual property rights would apply, if it is necessary to register, the length of time of protection, any costs involved and is the protection global or just for Australia.

3. The types of business structures available when setting up a business and recommend which structure you think will suit his needs.

4. Apart from registering the business structure (if required) is there are other registrations required when setting up the business.

5. Why he may wish to develop a logo, brand name/trade mark and an online presence.