Insights

When selling a business, intellectual property can be one of the most valuable assets being transferred. But sellers are often caught out by created IP, especially where software, branding, website content or processes were developed by contractors, freelancers or agencies without a proper written assignment.

Long-awaited reforms to Victoria’s Local Government Act 2020 have finally been introduced, bringing changes to mayoral removals, councillor leave, standdowns and CEO employment. But some of Operation Sandon’s biggest reform questions remain untouched.

A recent Victorian Supreme Court decision has confirmed that a person listed on the ASIC register as a director may not be a director at all if they never gave genuine consent, never acted in the role and received no benefit from the appointment.

Historic PPSR registrations can sit on the register long after a loan, lease or supply arrangement has ended. For businesses seeking finance, refinancing or preparing for sale, those old registrations can create delay, confusion and commercial risk.

Disputes between siblings over inheritances, family trusts, companies and family businesses are becoming increasingly common in Australia. While many people assume these conflicts are driven by money, the underlying causes are often decades of family dynamics, differing expectations and disagreements about what is fair.

Buying or selling property in Victoria? Building and pest inspection clauses can make or break a deal. Here’s what purchasers and vendors need to know about termination rights, major defects and the fine print hidden inside a Contract of Sale.

Governments can compulsorily acquire private land for public purposes in Victoria. Learn how the process works, what compensation you can claim, and why independent legal advice is essential. Expert guidance from Anton Dunhill, Hunt & Hunt Lawyers.

Affected by VNI West or another infrastructure project? Learn how compulsory acquisition works in Victoria and what compensation may be available.

A missing $1,500 gate turned into a $15.2 million payout. This case is a sharp warning for councils: when predictable behaviour meets overlooked design, liability follows.

When majority control crosses the line into unfairness, minority shareholders are not without recourse. This overview explains what oppression looks like and how the Court responds.

When a company cannot or will not act, directors and shareholders may step in. This case highlights when the Court will allow proceedings to be brought on the company’s behalf — and the risks that come with it.

When a damaging anonymous review crossed the line, legal action forced Google to reveal the identity behind the account—exposing a competitor posing as a customer.

Selling a business with a substantial vehicle fleet can add unexpected complexity to a transaction. This guide explains the legal and practical differences between an asset sale, share sale and SPV structure.

When control shifts and transparency disappears, minority shareholders can find themselves locked out of the business they helped build. The law provides powerful remedies — but evidence is critical.

When confidential data walks out the door, speed matters. Early court intervention can prevent irreparable commercial damage.

Handshake deals feel simple — right up until memory, money and expectations diverge. If nothing is in writing, evidence becomes the battleground.

What starts as a handshake at the kitchen table can end in years of litigation. When family succession plans are undocumented, disputes can escalate quickly.

When employee theft occurs, hesitation can cost you. Acting quickly — and strategically — can significantly improve your chances of recovery.