The Star Decision: Key Governance Lessons for Directors and Senior Executives

In ASIC v Bekier & Ors [2026] FCA 196, the Federal Court delivered one of the most closely watched corporate governance decisions in recent years. The case arose from regulatory proceedings brought by the Australian Securities and Investments Commission (ASIC) against several directors and senior executives of The Star Entertainment Group.

Setting the Standard: Federal Court’s Ruling on Unfair Contract Terms in Insurance

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Australian Securities & Investments Commission v Auto & General Insurance Company Limited [2024] FCA 272 For the first time since the new Unfair Contract Term Regime’s implementation in November 2023, the Federal Court of Australia has ruled on the Regime’s application to insurance contracts.   The Court’s dismissal of ASIC’s claims has established a high […]

Protecting Your Commercial Property Rights

Real Estate Agents,

Commercial property law is an area of law that governs the construction, maintenance, and ongoing use of commercial property. The property rights that attach to owning a commercial property are different to the property rights that attach to a residential property. There are different types and classifications associated with commercial property and commercial property law […]

Top Tips For Negotiating and Preparing Commercial Contracts

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In today’s fast-paced and inter-connected business environment, negotiating and preparing comprehensive commercial contracts has never been more critical. As businesses strive for growth, sustainability, and competitive advantage, the role of well-crafted contracts as foundational tools for establishing and managing business relationships goes hand in hand with the successful execution of corporate strategy. Whether raising capital, […]

5 Benefits of Engaging An Estate Planning Lawyer

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The power of a good estate planning lawyer is often underestimated when people are considering what will happen to their assets when they pass away. For many, the discussion regarding what should happen to their estates on their death is one that is often put on the back burner or is often not considered at […]

The Benefits of Engaging A Commercial Lawyer for Mergers & Acquisitions

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One of the most powerful decisions you can make when choosing to sell, acquire or merge a business is the decision to engage with a commercial lawyer to work with you through the process. The commercial lawyer you choose and when you engage them can significantly impact the negotiation process, the end result and what […]

Are Your Business’s Contracts Legal From 9 November 2023?

MacDonnells Law Business Contracts

The 12-month transition period to update your standard form contracts is nearing an end. Businesses are required to update their contracts to ensure they are compliant with the new law to avoid facing penalties of up to $50 million, 3 times the gained benefit from the breach of the law or 30% of the business’s […]

The DIN Deadline is Here

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The Director identification regime came into effect on 1 November 2021 and introduced requirements for both new and existing directors. Under the regime, existing directors appointed on or before 31 October 2021 are required to have applied for their Director Identification Number (DIN) before 30 November 2022. After this time, a failure to register is […]