In this article we will consider how the new "Right to Disconnect" law in Australia impacts employees and employers and what factors both employees and employers need to take into account when communicating outside of work hours.
By Joseph Haarsma on Mar 19, 2024 3:42:58 PM
In this article we will consider how the new "Right to Disconnect" law in Australia impacts employees and employers and what factors both employees and employers need to take into account when communicating outside of work hours.
By Ana Haarsma on Feb 28, 2024 12:26:52 PM
On 8 February 2024, the Minister for Small Business, the Hon Julie Collins MP, released the Independent Review of the Franchising Code of Conduct by Dr Michael Schaper. In this article we consider the key findings and recommendations of the Independent Review.
By Stephen Haarsma on Dec 12, 2023 4:26:36 PM
Traditionally, franchise agreements were not negotiable. However, in our experience, franchisors have become more willing to negotiate terms and obligations contained in a franchise agreement. This trend is likely to be further influenced by the Unfair Contracts Regime which applies to small business standard form contracts. A franchisor who is open to negotiating key terms in a franchise agreement, may be less likely to have the franchise agreement considered a standard form contract.
By Ana Haarsma on Oct 6, 2023 12:13:23 PM
By Stephen Haarsma on Oct 5, 2023 12:02:54 PM
The Treasury Laws Amendment (More Competition, Better Prices) Act 2022 ("the Act") came into effect on 9 November 2022.
By Joseph Haarsma on Sep 18, 2023 10:42:40 AM
In this blog post, we will delve into some of the key amendments made to the Fair Work Act 2009 (Cth) ("Fair Work Act") under the Secure Jobs, Better Pay Act 2022 (Cth) ("SJBP"). Our aim is to provide an understanding of the implications of these changes, exploring their direct impact on employee rights and the obligations faced by employers.
By Ana Haarsma on Aug 30, 2023 11:33:15 AM
On 23 August 2023, the Government released the Consultation Paper for the 2023 review of the Franchising Code of Conduct.
By Ana Haarsma on Aug 21, 2023 2:40:23 PM
In November 2023, the 12-month transition period for the Treasury Laws Amendment (More Competition, Better Prices) Act 2022 ("the Act") comes to a close. As we reflect on the impact of this act, it becomes even more crucial to understand the ins and outs of standard form contracts and in particular to understand "What is a standard form contract?".
Standard Form Contracts
ACCC reference to Standard Form Contracts
What is a Standard Form Contract under the ACL?
What does the Explanatory Memorandum say about Standard Form Contracts?
Takeaways
A standard form contract is generally referred to as a contract that has pre-drafted terms and conditions that can be easily adapted to different transactions or agreements. This eliminates the need for extensive negotiations and allows parties to quickly and efficiently enter into contracts.
Examples of standard form contracts include software licence user agreements where you tick a box to indicate that you agree to the terms and conditions of use.
By Ana Haarsma on Jul 26, 2023 9:31:54 AM
The growth strategy for your business will ultimately be determined by the nature of your business and your business objectives. In this article, we have outlined 5 strategies for growing a business in Australia.
1 - Understanding the Australian Business Landscape
2 - Building a Strong Brand Presence
3 - Marketing Effectively for Growth
4 - Product Development
5 - Licensing or Franchising
By Ana Haarsma on Jul 11, 2023 8:48:45 PM
The regulation of Unfair Contract Terms is about to change. In November 2023 the 12 month transition period for the Treasury Laws Amendment (More Competition, Better Prices) Act 2022 (the Act) will come to an end.
As franchisors adapt to the Franchising Code of Conduct introduced on 1 April 2025 (the new...
Copyright © 2021 Haarsma Lawyers