In the current pandemic parties to legal proceedings may be tempted to apply for an adjournment or further time, citing COVID-19 as the reason for the delay. Certainly the Federal Court of Australia has been quick to respond to the pandemic by changing its procedures and has even conducted entire trials using Microsoft Teams. This article discusses the circumstances where COVID-19 has been used as justification for a delay in proceeding and the Court’s view on granting stays for this reason. [Read more…]
Relief for companies during COVID-19
April 9, 2020 by
On 24 March 2020, the Federal Government passed the Coronavirus Economic Response Package Omnibus Act 2020 (Cth) (Act). As a part of the Act, insolvency and corporations laws have been temporarily amended in light of the financial challenges businesses are facing in the wake of COVID-19. The changes made are intended to avoid unnecessary insolvencies and bankruptcies by providing a safety net for companies and their directors during the pandemic. This article will discuss the key changes. [Read more…]
The new business as usual in 2020!
April 5, 2020 by
It’s perhaps an understatement to say that the last two (2) months for Australian business has been unprecedented. How can any business plan adequately consider and cater for a global pandemic and mass business shutdowns? Extraordinary seems to be the new business as usual (BAU) in 2020! [Read more…]
Standing down employees – when can it be done?
March 27, 2020 by
Standing down employees without pay would seem a logical response to the current COVID-19 crisis. Employers must first recognise that during the COVID-19 public health pandemic normal workplace laws continue to apply. [Read more…]
