The new Right to Disconnect law commenced on 26 August 2024 for non-small businesses in Australia. This significant change to the Fair Work Act, part of the Closing Loopholes laws, means that, if you employ 15 or more employees, your workers now have the right to refuse work-related communications outside of their regular working hours unless it is deemed unreasonable for them to do so. As a business owner, here are what you need to be aware of and what steps you should take to en...

At The Franchise & Business Lawyers, we pride ourselves on providing not only expert legal advice but also a personalised and caring approach. One of our valued clients recently shared their experience working with us, highlighting our competitive fees, approachable demeanor and deep knowledge of franchise and business law. Their positive feedback emphasises how we have been instrumental in their journey, ensuring compliance with all legal regulations while supporting their business grow...

The Fair Work Ombudsman (FWO) has secured penalties of $15.3 million against the former operators of Sushi Bay outlets in New South Wales, Darwin and Canberra. This relates to the exploitation of vulnerable migrant workers, which included underpaying their staff by more than $650,000. The penalties were against the companies that owned the businesses, but $1.6 million was also imposed against the sole director of those companies. Whilst these businesses were not franchised businesses, it i...