The federal government has established a franchising taskforce to advise on reforms to the sector and build a framework that supports franchisees and franchisors. The taskforce will examine the recommendations of the Fairness in Franchising report, which were designed to strengthen and expand protections for franchisees. Franchisees may be allowed to take collective action, which [...]
Australia’s competition watchdog wants to give small businesses the legal right to collectively bargain with suppliers and processors. The ACCC has proposed issuing a ‘class exemption’ to the small business sector to allow it to collectively negotiate without the risk of breaching competition law. “The proposed class exemption would apply to businesses and independent contractors [...]
The Fair Work Australia ombudsman has promised that she will take a stronger approach to enforcement in the coming financial year. Sandra Parker said the government has given the regulator increased powers and more resources – and that she plans to use them. Her priority industries and issues in 2019-20 will be: Fast food, restaurants [...]
ASIC has said it will target business owners who try to dodge their creditors by “illegal phoenix activity”. A director has received three serious punishments after being caught engaging in phoenix activity. Ms Amy Timko, of Spreyton, Tasmania, has been: Convicted of two counts of fraudulent conduct under the Corporations Act 2001 Sentenced to two [...]
