6.1.2.1 Overview - International Searching

Date Published

Overview

The following procedures in this chapter are supplementary to the PCT International Search and Preliminary Examination Guidelines. They are intended to facilitate an understanding and application of the Guidelines by:

  • highlighting the essential steps to be taken by examiners

  • directing examiner attention to the relevant passages of the Guidelines, PCT Articles, Rules and Administrative Instructions.

See Annex P for a timeline of typical international application process from first filing to National Phase Entry.

The PCT numbering system

Note that the expanded numbering system PCT/AU/20xx/123456 and WO 20xx/123456 took effect from 1 January 2004. In the case of Australia, it applies to all official communications, publications and other official documents in respect of all PCT application numbers and publication numbers, whether the PCT application was filed before or after that date. 

The citing of pre 2004 documents in the new format extends to the citing of such documents in reports and opinions. This applies even if the document has been cited in an earlier opinion or report according to the old format. However, the old numbering system will be retained for data held in the mainframe computer (such as, PATADMIN). This applies even for applications filed from 1 January 2004.

Amended Reasons

Amended Reason Date Amended

Edited for better readability. Edited for consistency with Style Manual. Updated link text.

Published for testing

Submitted For Approval

Submitted For Approval

Published for testing
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