Updated ASIC Fees

What are the New Fees? From 1st July 2023, ASIC will be updating its fees, and all those paying ASIC fees will need to comply with these new cost requirements. Most relevant are new company set-up costs, which have a range of new costs: An Australian (Pt 2A.1) company having share capital: 1 July 2022 […]
Are You Entitled to a Warranty from an International Vendor?

When the law of contracts, sales and commerce evolved, international transactions were something of a rarity. There was no e-commerce, and most transactions between parties from different jurisdictions were made face-to-face, at a dockside or trading post. Now, however, international transactions are commonplace. Not only do companies and large commercial deals occur between parties who […]
What Happens to My Super When I Die?

Most end-of-life planning is generally focused around an individual’s will. The common-sense conception of a will is that it is the single document which dictates where everything you own goes after you die. If your will specifies what is to happen to all your assets upon your death, this principle is correct. However, your superannuation […]
The Importance of Having a Good Shareholders Agreement

Starting a new business can be an exciting and challenging endeavour, but it is also a journey that requires careful planning and preparation. If a corporate structure is being used, one of the most important steps in setting up the new business is having a well-drafted shareholders agreement in place. A shareholders agreement is a […]
Structuring Your Startup

Selecting the right business structure is one of the most crucial decisions to be made when starting a business. The choice of business structures can affect key aspects of your business such as tax, asset protection, setup costs, and personal liability. Although a business’ structure can be changed throughout its life, there can be complications […]
Piercing the Corporate Veil: When May a Director be Personally Liable?

In late 2019, the controversy-riddled charity White Ribbon finally succumbed to its wounds and declared that it would go into voluntary liquidation. White Ribbon, whose mission was to combat violence against women, had faced a number of headwinds, and its newly appointed chief executive Tracy McLeod Howe was attempting to salvage what she could of […]
Top Ten Reasons for Registering Your Trademark

1. A registered trademark is a valuable asset for your business. The value of intellectual property such as trademarks often equals or even surpasses the value of physical assets for a company. 2. Trademark registration, brand recognition and goodwill are all factors which can work towards the purchasing power your business has. Intangible assets are […]
What is a Social Enterprise?

The fact that “things aren’t the way they used to be” is one of those things that never change. This is the case whether in the context of the way kids behave, how cars are made, or the successes of family businesses. In particular, charities and non-for-profits are finding it increasingly difficult to fund their […]
Volunteers

Engaging volunteers comes with its own unique opportunities and challenges. It differs from hiring employees in substantial ways, both legally and practically. Since volunteers engage in a vast range of different activities, various questions may arise. What are my obligations to my volunteers? Can I give a volunteer a gift of money as a token […]
Top Four Tips for Preparing for a Negotiation

Negotiating is a process which people often go into blindly without adequate preparation. However, it is crucial that you do all that you can beforehand to ensure you get the most out of a negotiation. Regardless of what the negotiation is about or who you are negotiating with, these 4 tips can help you be […]