New changes to franchising laws Franchising laws have changed again, and if you’re a franchise business owner it’s important you’re up to the date with the latest requirements. Introduction of the franchise disclosure register The government has introduced the online Franchise Disclosure Register, which is a database of franchisors’ disclosed information, which can be accessed...
What Buyers Need to Know Australians’ obsession with the property market continues unabated. Earlier this year the Real Estate Institute of Queensland (REIQ) brought in some changes to the way contracts for sale are drawn up. As a buyer, here’s what’s new for you: Compliant smoke alarms: Smoke alarms must be installed in any domestic...
Whether you’re buying a commercial or residential property, you’re probably familiar with the role that real estate agents play in the process. They’re probably the most visible presence throughout the entire transaction, as they’re doing their best to convince you to purchase the property. However, what many people don’t know is the importance of residential...
As the property market continues to heat up, sellers are reminded there are several new obligations when it comes to residential contracts. Here’s a summary of what you need to know before completing the sale of your house or land: Compliant smoke alarms: You must install smoke alarms in any domestic dwelling. If you fail...
The Federal Government has new legislation requiring all company directors to have a Director Identification Number (DIN) in a bid to combat the rise of fake director registrations. DINs are a unique identifier which will stay with an individual director forever, even when they cease to be a director. As a company director, you’ll need...
With the increase in the cost of building materials and delays in construction due to labour shortages and other issues, we’re getting a lot of questions about building contracts. Can your builder increase the price of a fixed-price building contract? In most cases, no. Although there are some exceptions including: Rise and fall clauses Prime...
Investing in the Australian property market from overseas has just become a little more expensive. The Federal Government has doubled foreign investment application fees, which brings a boost to the government’s coffers, but what does it mean for you? Firstly, a foreigner can only buy into the Australian property market if their purchase can strengthen...
There are plenty of advantages to buying an established business. You don’t need to spend time setting up workflows, hiring staff, buying equipment, and establishing a client base. All you need to do is figure out how to make the business work. However, it’s difficult to account for everything that could happen once you’re already...
Buying an existing business presents an exciting opportunity. But before you jump in, there are certain things you must consider, such as asking the right questions before you sign a contract. From small businesses to big corporations, you must decide wisely before putting it all down on paper. Here are the five questions you...
Just about every business needs to work with a lawyer to ensure that they are fully protected. Indeed, businesses rely on their lawyers for a variety of important services, from providing critical legal advice to helping with complex transactions. However, not all businesses know exactly what questions to ask their lawyer in order to get...
If you offer software as a service, it’s important to have a solid agreement in place with each of your customers. Depending on the type of customer and how they access your software, the agreement may vary. However, there are some key clauses that should be included in every SaaS agreement. These clauses relate to...
A good conveyancing solicitor will help ensure that you don’t have any regrets about a property transaction, even years later. They will make sure all the paperwork is in order and that your interests are protected. Here are some of the answers to some of the most common questions a conveyancing lawyer gets. We hope...