Latest publications
Extending a convening period before it expires — relevant principles
In Brief The administrator of a company under administration must convene a meeting of the company’s creditors within the convening period set out in section 439A(5) of the Corporations Act 2001 (Cth) or as extended by the Court under section 439A(6). The courts have shown a willingness to extend the convening period provided there…
Award Wage Increase — What do I do?
In Brief With the new tax year upon us, for many businesses, workers compensation policy periods turn-over and budgets are being finalised. Amongst all this activity, the increase in award wages and the national minimum wage, can be missed, which can cause headaches for many businesses. This article highlights what businesses…
Union Visits — How does one limit uninvited guests?
In Brief Union visits and the associated tension between employers and union officials can be disruptive and stressful for both parties. The Fair Work Commission has provided recommendations to clarify rights of entry visits which will be trialled for a period of three month. This article highlights the recommendations in more detail…
Proposed new rules for paying dividends
In Brief If passed in Parliament, the Corporations Legislation Amendment (Deregulatory and Other Measures) Bill 2014 may simplify the process of declaring and paying dividends and reduce compliance costs for SME businesses. In this article we take a look at the current and proposed new rules for paying dividends. Introduction If passed in…
Can I disinherit my wayward child from my will?… You may be surprised!
In Brief Who can make a claim against your estate? What needs to be established by the applicant? What will the court consider? Read on as we answer these important questions along with proactive strategies to help protect your estate. Who can make a claim? Chapter 3 of the Succession Act 2006 (Act) empowers certain…
Swimming pool compliance legislation delay: A sensible outcome
In Brief Legislative changes were to come into effect from 29 April 2014 requiring swimming pool compliance certificates to be annexed to contracts for the sale or lease of land. The Office of Local Government announced on 28 March 2014 that the implementation of these changes would be postponed for a further 1…
How to avoid paying for employee non-work related injuries
In Brief Employers are increasingly becoming aware that allowing an employee to return to work after suffering an injury, especially a non-work related one, can be risky business. If an employee returns to work before they are fit to do so and consequently aggravates his or her condition, the employer may find…
e‑Conveyancing — The “e” stands for “exciting”!
In Brief Anyone who has discovered the highs and lows of dealing with exchange and settlement in relation to real property knows how delicate and unreliable the process can be. Enter e‑conveyancing. Wendy Conceicao, Associate and manager of our Conveyancing portfolio, and Euge Power, solicitor, look at the reliability and other…
Germany bans employers from contacting employees outside of work hours
In Brief It has been reported that in July 2013, German born Chief Executive of Swisscom, Carsten Schloter, sadly committed suicide just weeks after providing a candid interview to the Swiss media which provided an insight into the increased pressures and stress he felt caused by modern communication systems. In one media…
$105,000 awarded for defamatory tweets
In Brief The District Court of NSW has ordered a Defendant who posted defamatory statements on Twitter and Facebook about a local school teacher, to pay $105,000 in compensatory damages .This decision, the first of its kind in Australia, sends a clear message that personal attacks using social media will not be tolerated. The Facts…