Stay ahead of the evolving workplace landscape. Join our HR highlights series for clear, practical guidance on the key legal changes HR leaders need to prepare for in 2026.
A NSW Supreme Court decision confirms that a creditor’s right to original bank guarantees may survive a deed of company arrangement (DOCA), allowing direct recourse against the issuing bank. The case highlights the importance of obtaining and retaining original guarantees where they replace retention money under construction contracts.
Victoria’s upcoming planning reforms could reshape how historic planning permits and permit conditions operate, with some potentially ceasing to have effect where a permit is no longer required. The changes raise important questions for developers, landowners and planning practitioners ahead of their anticipated commencement in 2027.
Most transactions are receiving fast clearance under Australia’s new merger regime, with the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) focusing scrutiny on serial acquisitions, local market consolidation and competition concerns. Early decisions reveal the key trends shaping merger reviews and approvals.
New reforms will embed Director IDs into routine corporate reporting and expand ASIC's powers to manage, correct and enforce registry information. Companies should review governance processes ahead of the new reporting requirements commencing in 2027.
Existing lawful use of rural premises for a storage facility which is contrary to an overarching planning strategy seeking to locate such uses in urban areas significantly diminishes the strategy and weighs in favour of approval.
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