Latest publications
5 Reasons why you might need testamentary trusts in your will
A testamentary trust is a trust that is created under a will and comes into effect after you die. Here are five reasons why testamentary trusts are a great structure to consider in your estate planning. Asset protection Assets under a testamentary trust are held and managed by a trustee (as appointed by you) for the…
How to lose a business — without lifting a finger
‘The shareholders own the business, right? After all, they own the company, which pays the rent and the staff and the bills that keep the lights on and the photocopier humming. The customers are customers of the business, aren’t they? Sure, your employees have the direct relationship with the customers…
Personal risks for directors in modern times
When I came back to the office after the holidays, I came across a couple of recent surveys of Australian directors which reveal some of the issues that most concern the people who run companies in this country in 2017. Regulatory and personal risks are always near the top of these lists, and…
The Fair Work Commission — Has it lost its way?
Trust — the key ingredient There is no mystery as to what lies at the heart of healthy staff/management relationships in a business – the key is trust! (See my December post) So, what happens to employment opportunities in our country when the business community loses faith in the Fair Work Commission…
“Buying food, drinks and women”; an assessment of parties’ conduct as it relates to family law
Parties who have been in a de facto relationship (heterosexual or same sex) or marriage and have separated sometimes ask if his or her (or the other party’s) conduct has any impact on their financial settlement. Common questions include: “Will I get more if my partner/spouse has cheated on me?” “Will I get more if…
Calculating redundancy payments does prior service as a casual count?
Australian law has for a long time recognised the concept of “casual” employment. It is generally understood that casual employees are engaged on an “as needed” basis. There is no obligation on the employer to offer a casual work and, equally, there is no obligation on the employee to accept work when offered…
Environmental Planning and Assessment Amendment Bill
The State Government has released the Environmental Planning and Assessment Amendment Bill 2017. The Bill is on public exhibition until 10 March 2017. Proposed amendments of note include:Development Applications The requirement to give reasons why a DA was determined the way it was. The reasons are designed to inform the community as…
Trust me — I’m your employer
Coming into this season, we tend to reflect on the year that was and what matters most in our lives. For many of us, this will be nurturing healthy relationships. Relationships founded on trust. This year, I have made it my business to seek out and spend time with people who have…
We can’t build our wills on suspicious minds
What to expect when challenging a will made in ‘suspicious circumstances’ Key points Courts presume that wills are made validly – that is, that they are prepared and executed correctly, and that the testator knows about and approves of the contents of the will These presumptions are open to challenge where the…
The Strategic Marketing of Innovation
In Brief Innovation should be the key element in your business strategy. However, innovation only has commercial value when it satisfies the needs of your target markets By satisfying your customer’s needs in a unique way, innovation provides not only increased revenue but also justifies higher margins which can be the…