Gold tier status for patent prosecution by IAM Patent 1000 2026

The IAM Patent 1000 focuses exclusively on patent practice and has firmly established itself as the definitive 'go-to' resource for those seeking world-class legal patent expertise. We are proud to have received the prestigious Gold Tier Ranking for Patent Prosecution Firms in Australia for 2026. Our unique blend of technical expertise and client-focused service has consistently earned us this top-tier ranking year after year.

It is with great pleasure that we recognise the outstanding contributions of our leaders in the field. Congratulations to Brett Lunn, Connie Merlino, Ian Rourke, Jeremy Dobbin, Jenny Petering, John Landells, Karin Innes, Madeleine Kelly, Patrick McManamny, Rachel Hooke, Steve Gledhill and Stuart Campbell in Australia; and Matt Adams in New Zealand for being named in IAM Patent 1000's recommended list for Patent Prosecution for 2026.

Commendation from IAM Patent 1000 2026

Several members of our team were honoured with a commendation in IAM Patent 1000 2026:

FB Rice is a well-established, independent IP firm with a sizeable patent practice advising across the full patent lifecycle. “The team offers impressive depth and breadth across disciplines and jurisdictions, allowing matters to be handled smoothly and at scale.” The practice supports clients from early invention capture through to portfolio management and strategic advisory, with work spanning Australia, New Zealand and key international markets. FB Rice is structured around technical depth and partner-led delivery. Attorneys are drawn from engineering, life sciences, chemistry and computing backgrounds, allowing matters to be staffed by subject matter expertise‑ rather than location. An established network of overseas associates enables the firm to coordinate global filing strategies while maintaining close local oversight, giving clients continuity as portfolios expand and mature. The strength of the practice is reflected in a broad senior bench, with practitioners who combine technical command with a clear appreciation of commercial context.

Sitting at the head of the practice, Madeleine Kelly, managing partner, anchors the firm’s electronics and computing work. She advises on software driven inventions and complex ICT subject matter, including data enabled‑ technologies, and is widely trusted for her ability to distil intricate technical issues into a clear course of action. Her work is often central to shaping patent portfolios designed to scale internationally.

Working in close step with Kelly is chair and partner Brett Lunn, a longtime model of success whose practice is rooted in strategic portfolio planning and risk assessment. An old hand in patent strategy, he is frequently sought out at critical junctures, where clients value his measured judgment and pragmatic perspective.

The firm’s depth in life sciences is reflected in the practices of Karin Innes, Patrick McManamny and Ian Rourke, who together form a strong biotechnology bench. Their work spans the drafting and prosecution of patents grounded in molecular biology, physiology and therapeutic research, often across demanding, multijurisdictional filing programmes. Each brings fine-grained technical acuity to matters where precision and foresight are essential.

Chemistry focused‑ mandates are led by practitioners such as John Landells, whose practice covers pharmaceutical, agrochemical and materials-based inventions. He is regularly entrusted with coordinating prosecution strategies across jurisdictions, navigating formal and substantive differences while maintaining strategic coherence.

Strength in computing and electronics is further reinforced by Connie Merlino, who leads this stream of work. She advises on patent protection for software enabled and hardware integrated technologies, with a particular emphasis on managing portfolios as products evolve and diversify. She also stands out for her excellent bedside manner with one client praising her saying, “Her client-relationship management is outstanding.”

Engineering work is shared across a well coordinated cohort including Stuart Campbell and Jeremy Dobbin. Campbell draws on his background in product development and manufacturing to advise on mechanical and electromechanical inventions, while Dobbin pairs patent prosecution expertise with leadership of the firm’s registered designs practice, supporting clients in product driven markets.

Medical technology is another area of focus, where Rachel Hooke plays a key role. She advises on patent strategies that support innovation in regulated environments, coordinating cross border filings while remaining firmly aligned with development and commercial timelines.

Rounding out the senior bench, Steve Gledhill leads life sciences work with a focus on biotechnology patents, while Dr Jenny Petering, of counsel, brings decades of experience to technically demanding matters requiring careful portfolio stewardship and strategic nuance.

Thank you to our clients for being part of IAM’s extensive research analysis, and the incredible team at FB Rice for upholding superior client service.

See further recognition via our Awards.