October 2016 Newsletter

Welcome to our October collection of articles and ideas for clever business operators. We have exciting news at Rankin & Co this month as we introduce another senior team member…

Welcome: Ben Elbaum

Rankin & Co are proud to announce our new team member, senior lawyer and tax guru, Ben Elbaum.

Ben’s specialty tax knowledge allows him to advise clients in a diverse range of tax related matters, including structuring of mergers and acquisitions and resolution of disputes with tax authorities. He has assisted clients in relation to both federal and state taxes and have experience in implementing practical strategies to effectively deal with tax related issues.

As well as specialising in tax, Ben also practices in general commercial law and has experience advising on, documenting and negotiating many types of commercial arrangements.

Unfair Contract Terms

Unfair Contract Terms take effect on and from 12 November 2016, it is important (as early as possible) to start preparing for this change. The changes are in place to protect small businesses from unfair terms in standard form contracts and will apply to any standard form contract renewed on or after 12 November 2016.

It is important to know if you are a small business or contract to small businesses (20 employees or less) and get Rankin & Co to review any standard form contracts for unfair terms prior to 12 November 2016.

Click here for more information from the ACCC website.

New Drone Laws

As technology is advancing so must our laws to allow and regulate the use of this technology. In the case of drones, new legislation has been introduced at the end of September 2016 that effectively make it easier to fly them. Drones are easy to purchase and are now commonly used in many professions; from extreme sports to real estate.

The new laws introduce a licensing system through CASA (Civil Aviation Safety Authority) which is based on the weight of the drone and only applicable for commercial use.

Click here to read more.

Random Piece of our History

Did you know, on this day in 1903 the High Court of Australia sat for the first time and was in Melbourne.

The High Court was established in 1901 by Section 71 of the Constitution, but wasn't until 6 October 1903 when the legislation passed and it sat for the first time in the Supreme Court building in Melbourne. Today, most sittings take place in Canberra, but they are also scheduled in Sydney and Melbourne usually one day a month.

Thanks again for reading. If you have any queries or would like to discuss any legal issues please don’t hesitate to contact me on 0422 736 206 or rob@rankinandco.com