FPA Patent Attorneys has retained its Gold Tier ranking for Patent Prosecution in Australia in the highly regarded IAM Patent 1000 2025 rankings, with nine Principals across Australian and Singapore offices receiving individual recognition as leading patent professionals.
Market recognition for excellence
IAM Patent 1000 praised FPA’s team as:
“…high-calibre, hardworking, curious and highly intelligent attorneys, each with complementary scientific skill sets, to form a rounded team. Their advice is thoughtfully presented, and they take the time to understand the needs of the client – both from a defensive protection view, and from an offensive commercially assertive view.
Their comprehensive IP solutions ensure top-tier service for clientele and peers alike, the latter lauding them for being ‘the best overseas associates to use for prompt and effective delivery of quality service for some of the most demanding clients”.
Principal recognition
Nine FPA Principals received ‘recommended’ status in the 2025 rankings:
Karen Bentley was recognised for her expertise in “patent best practices, particularly in the food technology and life sciences sectors, managing large patent portfolios and defending IP rights during high-pressure opposition proceedings.”
Chris Bird was praised as “a consummate professional with an exceptional approach to resolving any problems. His dual qualification in European and Australian patent law places him in a unique position to understand cross-border prosecution issues. He has a flair for adopting pragmatic solutions to get my clientele out of prosecution difficulties.”
Adam Denley was acknowledged for bringing “a robust academic background in biotechnology, molecular and cell biology, cancer genetics and immunotherapy, deploying it masterfully in his advisory and portfolio management services.”
John Dower was recognised for his “thought leadership and unparalleled dedication to clients, with one peer noting: ‘Having worked with John for over 20 years, I can confidently say he has unparalleled dedication to clients. John’s deep expertise, personable nature and collaborative approach make him a pleasure to work with, whether navigating intricate legal challenges or offering strategic guidance’”.
Carl Harrap was “commended for his ability to handle complex patent matters in an impressive range of matters, including consumer products, electronics and fintech. His keen eye for immensely intricate matters pertaining to ophthalmic technologies and photonics does not go unappreciated by patrons: ‘His niche expertise has been very beneficial for our portfolio. With Carl’s experience, we feel confident that we receive the best possible outcome, which is in line with our company’s IP strategy’”.
Tracey Hendy was recognised for her “impressive reputation for her specialisation in complex patents in the mechanical engineering, manufacturing and medical devices space. Hendy excels in patents and designs, providing strategic advice and protection strategies, particularly in the Southeast Asian region.”
Stuart Irvine was described as “one of the very few real experts in software patents based in Australia. Trusted to provide the best approach for patent protection, Irvine is ‘not only technically skilled but also proactive, responsive and personable. His ability to synthesise complex legalities and technicalities into clear and actionable advice has been crucial’”.
Nicholas Lakatos received recognition for providing “outstanding patent services in computer vision, AI and machine learning for human movement analysis.” One peer commented, ‘Throughout our experience, he has offered exceptional consultation, demonstrating meticulous attention to detail and providing valuable guidance’”.
Desmond Tan received recognition in the Singapore rankings, reflecting FPA’s regional strength.
