Intellectual property crime
Intellectual property (IP) crime is illegal and is committed when someone who has no right to use a particular brand, logo, design, music or creative work. This is also known as counterfeiting.
IP crime is a massive problem around the world, causing deaths and injuries and costing the global economy upwards of US$200 billion a year. So far, Australia’s retail environment has been very fortunate to not be swamped by fakes but the counterfeit goods trade could gain a foothold here if we are not vigilant.
The Australian Government has recognised the impact of IP crime on the Australian people and has funded the AFP to respond effectively to emerging IP crime issues and support the significant copyright legislative reforms made by the Government.
The AFP is committed to building partnerships with industry and other law enforcement agencies to combat IP crime. It is also building an intelligence framework to identify convergences and possible links to organised crime.
In addition to its law enforcement strategies, the AFP is working to raise awareness of IP crime so that Australians can recognise and reject counterfeit goods and report IP crime.
How do I report IP crime?
To report IP crime, ring Crimestoppers on 1800 333 000 or you local state or territory police.
If you have discovered a brand imitation, support legitimate industry by contacting the brand owner.