There has been a lot of discussion recently about sexual harassment and the new stop orders. What is the background and have employers and Government considered societal changes?

Historically, sexual harassment has been viewed from the prism of being an issue of:

1. Criminal law (e.g., Sexual assault type cases)

2. Discrimination

Facial recognition technology (FRT) is now utilised across many industries and businesses. While FRT is becoming increasingly easier to implement, it is crucial that business’s adhere to privacy laws when using this technology.

From 1 November 2021, Director Identity Numbers (DINs) became mandatory for all company directors. Accordingly, all directors are now required to apply for a DIN and should begin preparing their applications.

Harwood Andrews is pleased to have advised the owners of the BIG4 Beacon Resort on the off-market sale of the business to Ingenia Communities group (ASX: INA) for $37m.

Harwood Andrews is delighted to have been identified by clients and peers for expertise and abilities for Victoria in the 2022 Doyle’s Guide.

Harwood Andrews has commenced a partnership with Settify which allows you to begin your family law pathway. Via Settify, you can get access to general family law guidance from anywhere and at any time.

On 8 October 2021, the Federal Court of Australia determined its first instance decision in the second Australian business interruption insurance test case. The decision in Swiss Re International Se v LCA Marrickville Pty Limited [2021] FCA 1206 (Second Test Case) provided legal guidance in determining whether business interruption insurance policies provide cover to businesses for losses related to COVID-19.

Harwood Andrews is pleased to announce that our new Melbourne office premises is now open in a new tower within the Collins Square precinct.

Harwood Andrews is pleased to have advised FinCap Australia on the acquisition of SpotED, an online education business that sources and delivers high quality, industry-accredited online short courses for students and jobseekers, delivered via a digital portal.

The Treasury Laws Amendment (2021 Measures No. 2) Bill 2021 (Bill) has introduced a key reform in the Not-For-Profit (NFP) space in relation to Deductable Gift Recipient (DGR) status.

The Administrative Appeals Tribunal (AAT) recently rejected the Australian Charities and Not-for-profits Commission’s (ACNC) decision to deny a charity known as Global Citizen Limited (Global Citizen) access to Public Benevolent Institution (PBI) status because its activities included advocacy.

As confirmed by the High Court’s decision in Burns v Corbett [2018] HCA 15, state tribunals, such as VCAT, do not have the jurisdiction to hear disputes between interstate parties.

On 1 July 2021, the Environment Protection Act 2017 (New Act) came into effect.

The new environment protection framework adopts a preventative, risk-based approach to preventing harm to human health and the environment. This is a shift away from the Former Act which adopted a prohibitive, reactionary approach whereby polluters were punished after committing an offence.

The Commercial Tenancy Relief Scheme Regulations 2021 (Regulations) were introduced by the Victorian Government on 24 August 2021 aimed at providing further rent relief for Commercial Tenants as a result of the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. A copy of the Regulations can be found HERE.

The separation from a spouse (married or de-facto) is a critical time to review your Will, Enduring Power of Attorney and Appointment of Medical Treatment Decision Maker.

On 1 September 2021, the Federal Circuit Court of Australia and the Family Court of Australia merged. They have joined to become the new Federal Circuit and Family Court of Australia (FCFCOA).

The impacts of COVID-19 have sped up Australia’s transition to a digital economy and accelerated virtual means of conducting business.

The Federal Government has unveiled an exposure draft of the Treasury Laws Amendment (Measures for a later sitting) Bill 2021: Unfair contract term reforms (Exposure Draft) which seeks to amend the Australian Consumer Law (ACL) to improve the unfair contract terms (UCT) regime.

Harwood Andrews hosted its annual Charity & Not-For-Profit webinar on Tuesday 7 September.