Privacy Act – Reform is on the Way
The Federal Government Attorney- General’s Department released its much anticipated Privacy Act Review Report[1] this year (“Review”), foreshadowing sweeping changes to privacy legislation in Australia. While the digital age has generated benefits such as new efficiencies, consumer convenience and employment opportunities, [2] it has also resulted [...]
Troubling Waters; Navigating the Australian Superannuation Guarantee Landscape: Recent Legal Issues for Employers (and Workers)
Our Taxation team at Pointon Partners are often asked to advise on whether employers are obliged to pay superannuation for the services of a contractor for the purposes of the Superannuation Guarantee Act when a dispute has arisen. This has been highlighted by recent ATO [...]
Earn-out Clause – a feature of today’s M & A environment
Earn-out clauses are progressively becoming a common feature of sale of business or company sale transactions. Earn-out clauses can be attractive to both the buyer and seller as they breach the gap in the sale price between the parties. However, there are various risks associated [...]
Rural Pharmacy Australia Conference – September 2023
Our Partner Michael Bishop was thrilled to present to the inaugural Rural Pharmacy Australia Conference on the Gold Coast over the weekend. He presented on the following topics: Sale of Business; Partnership Agreements; and Unfair Dismissal Claims. You can access the slide from the presentaton [...]
Australia-UK FTA unleashes exciting opportunities for Australian businesses
The highly anticipated Australia-United Kingdom Free Trade Agreement (A-UK FTA) came into force on 31 May 2023. [1] The A-UK FTA is one of the most comprehensive and innovative free trade agreements Australia has signed to date, opening up a wealth of opportunities for Australian [...]
From Stamp Duty to Tax: Major reform to stamp duty following the 2023-24 Victorian State Budget
On Tuesday 23 May 2023 the Victorian Treasurer, Tim Pallas, delivered the 2023-24 State Budget announcing a landmark reform to abolish stamp duty for commercial and industrial properties and introduce a new annual property tax. These changes are expected to take effect from 1 July [...]
Private Ancillary Funds
In May or June as we near the end of the financial year we are commonly asked to establish private ancillary funds for clients. A private ancillary fund is a private philanthropic vehicle typically established and operated by a high net worth individual or family. [...]
A DISCLAIMER SAVES THE DAY
A recent Queensland Court of Appeal decision shows the continuing utility of disclaimers on products despite legislative reforms narrowing the scope of their effectiveness. In Mallonland Pty Ltd & Anor v Advanta Seeds Pty Ltd[1] a class action was brought on behalf of commercial farmers against [...]
Buying or Selling a Business – Here are the top 5 things you should consider
Buying or selling a business is a major decision for both the seller and the buyer and can be a daunting and exciting process. Regardless of whether you are a seller or buyer, it is important you take into account a number of [...]
Director Identification Numbers – Now in Force
Australian company directors are now required by law to apply for a director identification number (“director ID”). A director ID is a unique identifier given to an eligible officer who has verified their identified their identity with the Australian Business Registry Services (“ABRS”). The Corporations [...]