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.

If you haven't already, you need to review your standard form contracts - as from 9th November 2023, big changes happen where it may be illegal to have an unfair term in your standard form contracts!

For those that reviewed their contracts a few years ago for unfair terms, this is not enough as the above illegality change and court interpretations since the unfair terms laws first came out have arguably made the approach to these terms very different.

The aftermath of the Federal Court's ruling on the $650 million compensation claim by former Mercedes-Benz dealerships against Mercedes-Benz has resulted in a multi-dimensional examination into the non-renewal of franchise agreements and the introduction of alternative agency contracts. What’s the impact of this landmark case on the Australian franchise industry?

If you're a part of our vibrant $170 billion franchising sector, this information is for you. Minister for Small Business Julie Collins has announced an independent review of the Franchising Code of Conduct, with an opportunity for those within the franchising sector to have their say.

The upcoming Barbie movie has created a frenzy of excitement, captivating audiences of all ages and demographics. The marketing efforts surrounding the film have been exceptional, resulting in numerous collaborations between Barbie and Australian brands. From luxury candles to clothing lines and even roller skates, these collaborations exemplify the power of successful partnerships. In this article, we will explore the significance of well-crafted sponsorship arrangements in Barbie collaborations, highlighting the benefits they offer while providing a few valuable tips for creating fruitful partnerships whether your goal is to work with Barbie or not.

The Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) has recently announced its compliance and enforcement priorities for 2023-24. While Cartel conduct, anti-competitive conduct, product safety, vulnerable/disadvantaged consumers, and first nation matters will always be a priority, a particular focus is also on consumer and competition issues in essential services, environmental claims and sustainability, scam detection, unfair terms, the digital economy, financial services, and other critical areas.