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.

In a recent development, media tycoon Rupert Murdoch has announced his decision to step down as chairman of News Corp and Fox Corporation, marking the conclusion of his tenure at the helm of the media conglomerate. This paves the way for his eldest son, Lachlan, to assume the role of chairman at both companies.

Drawing parallels with the popular TV series "Succession," it's evident how such transitions can become intricate. Therefore, we've compiled a set of a few of the essential considerations for family-run enterprises, whether they are large multinational corporations or smaller businesses, to keep in mind when contemplating a change in leadership.

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?

In today’s highly competitive business landscape, customer satisfaction is paramount. A well-structured refund policy that goes beyond mere administrative obligations is a crucial component that can enhance customer experience and safeguard your business's reputation.

In today's interconnected world, data privacy has taken centre stage, making a well-crafted privacy policy more than just a legal requirement – it's a strategic asset that can set your business apart. Due to this, a meticulously designed privacy policy for your business is essential. There are many risks involved if you neglect a privacy policy, but a carefully crafted one can transform your business, attracting customers and enhancing its credibility.

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.

Trademark protection is vital for preserving a brand's distinctiveness and preventing generic use/generalisation. Recent USA legal disputes, such as the ongoing Taco Bell and Taco John's case, serve as a good reminder for businesses to regularly review and reassess how they use and protect their trademarks.