From 1 April 2025, the Franchising Code of Conduct will introduce reforms to franchise agreements, disclosure protocols, and compliance requirements. Here are the key changes you should be aware of.

When customers purchase products or services in Australia, they have rights under the Australian Consumer Law (ACL). These rights ensure they receive products and services that meet certain standards. If these guarantees aren’t met, businesses must offer a repair, replacement, or refund, depending on whether the failure is major or minor. Here’s what businesses need to know to stay compliant.

Today in Queensland, Term One begins for most students. Whether you have kids or not, you might want to think about applying the four-term system to your business for a structured approach to success. You can do this by:

·         Setting quarterly Goals – Break your year into manageable terms. Focus on key milestones for each quarter.

·         Reviewing and reflecting - Use each term to assess progress and adjust strategies.

·         Focusing on Key Projects – Prioritise your business initiatives, one term at a time.

·         Staying Agile – The four-term system allows you to adapt quickly to changes and new opportunities.

Start Term 1 strong, and build momentum for the year ahead!

It’s already November, and Christmas—and the end of 2024—will be here before you know it! To help you navigate the year-end rush and enter 2025 with confidence, here are 12 ways to ensure a smooth transition:

The Australian Government has released a draft of the new Franchising Code of Conduct, with a limited consultation period closing on October 29. The updated Code, set to replace the current version on April 1 next year, incorporates changes in response to the 2023 Schaper Review.

As we celebrate the 2024 Paris Olympics, we are reflecting back on how some of our own Aussie stars have branched out to start their own businesses. Many Australian Olympians have shown that the skills and mindset cultivated through sports can translate into successful business ventures. Here are some lessons we can learn from their journeys.

In a recent and deeply concerning legal case, Narellan Pools Pty Ltd was fined $1.5 million after pleading guilty to industrial manslaughter. This case, decided in the District Court at Brisbane on 14 June 2024, highlights the critical importance of workplace safety and the severe legal consequences of neglecting safety protocols.

We will now seek to dissect the details of this case, its implications, and the essential takeaways for businesses.

As of 1 July 2024, a number of significant legal changes have come into effect in Australia, impacting various aspects of business operations. As experts in business and commercial law, specialising in franchising, we provide an overview of some of these changes, their implications, and actionable advice for businesses to ensure compliance and leverage new opportunities.

In January 2024 the U.S. Federal Trade Commission (FTC) proposed a groundbreaking ban on non-compete clauses in a move designed they believe to increase employment market competition and worker mobility. This significant policy shift could have a ripple effect internationally, potentially influencing employment practices and legal frameworks in other countries, including Australia.

Given the current Albanese government’s views on this area, there is a strong possibility that similar reforms could be considered in Australia.

In the landscape of business ownership and corporate governance, a shareholder agreement stands out as a crucial document that outlines the rights, obligations, and protections of shareholders within a company. Whether you're a startup founder, an investor, or part of a multi-shareholder enterprise, having a well-crafted shareholder agreement can be instrumental in navigating various scenarios and safeguarding interests. Let's delve into why a shareholder's agreement is essential for businesses.

In the dynamic world of branding and intellectual property, securing the right trademark is paramount for businesses seeking to distinguish themselves in the marketplace. However, navigating the fine line between distinctiveness and descriptiveness can be a daunting challenge, and getting it wrong can prove to be a costly mistake.

In today's fast-paced world, fostering an entrepreneurial mindset in our children is more crucial than ever. As school holidays approach, it's an opportune time for parents to ignite that spark of innovation and business acumen within their kids. By incorporating hands-on activities, imparting financial literacy, and encouraging problem-solving and creativity, parents can set their children on the path to entrepreneurial success from an early age.

In the world of artistic vision meeting commercial prowess, few have orchestrated their ascent to stardom as masterfully as Taylor Swift. Beyond the catchy tunes and glittering stage persona lies a fascinating narrative of legal strategies that have not only shielded her artistry but also propelled her to the upper echelons of the music industry - even helping her become the first billionaire solely from music and music-related earnings.

Welcome to the Business Sale Preparation Worksheet. As an experienced business advisor, we here at Advantage Partners Lawyers are here to guide you through the steps to ensure a successful sale of your business.

Embarking on the journey of selecting the perfect exit strategy is a defining moment for any business owner – whether you're steering a start-up or an established enterprise. This pivotal decision involves a delicate balance of financial foresight, personal aspirations, and overarching business objectives. Today, we're not only exploring some tried-and-true exit strategies but also providing a few insights into their unique dynamics to empower business owners contemplating their next steps.

This checklist for buyers will make the selling process a breeze!

It’s November and it will be Christmas and the end of the year before you know it! So here are 12 ways you can help prepare your business for the craziness of the end of the year to ensure a smooth and successful transition into 2024.