What limitations are there on the use of Olympic trade marks?
The Olympic Insignia Protection Act 1987 states that the Australian Olympic Committee (AOC) is the national owner of the Olympic rings symbol and the Olympic motto. The AOC also owns ten registered Olympic designs and a number of torch and flame designs. Only the AOC can use and license the use of the symbol, motto and Olympic designs to other parties. The Olympic Insignia Protection Act 1987 was amended in October 2001 and in part now protects the use of the word “Olympic”, “Olympiad” and their plurals and “Olympic Games” in advertising and promotion. To use these Protected Olympic Expressions a licence is required from the AOC. Full details can be found on the AOC website, www.olympics.com.au For limitations on the use of Olympic expressions as covered under the Olympic Insignia Protection Amendment Act 2001 please refer to the IP legislation section of our website. For further information, contact Alan Grover, Group Manager Brand Protection and Special Projects at the AOC on (02) 84
