Worldwide: Corporate/Commercial Law

Carroll & O'Dea's Business Lawyers Group provides comprehensive legal services for commercial, private and not-for-profit clients across Australia and internationally.

Where objections are lodged against a proposed compulsory acquisition under Chapter 6A of the Corporations Act, the residual holders can prevent the compulsory acquisition proceeding...

If a shareholder commits to accept a takeover bid ‘in the absence of a superior proposal’, does it have to wait before accepting the bid? And, if so, for how long? The Takeovers Panel recently considered the issues.

The NSW Government has deployed 20 new psychosocial-focused inspectors as part of a historic expansion of SafeWork NSW's compliance workforce, backed by a $344 million Workplace Mental Health package. These specialized inspectors will conduct proactive workplace assessments, enforce compliance through on-the-spot fines, and help employers identify and manage psychosocial hazards including bullying, harassment, excessive job demands, and exposure to traumatic events.

The Full Federal Court's decision in Crowley v Worley Limited marks a pivotal shift in Australian securities class action law by endorsing market-based causation and lowering evidentiary thresholds for proving shareholder loss. This landmark ruling, combined with the earlier Brambles decision, fundamentally alters the risk landscape for ASX-listed companies and their insurers.

As the end of financial year approaches, businesses face mounting pressure to clear outstanding debts and strengthen cash flow. This practical guide reveals five essential strategies for maximising debt recovery before 30 June, from establishing clear contractual terms to knowing when professional intervention becomes necessary.

Partners Scott Hay-Bartlem and Linda Tapiolas break down the 2026 federal Budget's proposed changes to discretionary trusts, examining new tax rates, beneficiary credits, and exemptions. As legislation continues to evolve, they explore the complexities of restructuring trust and company arrangements and explain why businesses should adopt a cautious approach to these significant reforms.

Senior associate Sophia Ousager and private client partner Scott Hay-Bartlem discuss Sophia's career progression at CGW, from law clerk to senior associate, while exploring her personal interests and approach to client problem-solving. The conversation offers insights into life at the firm and the motivations that drive legal professionals in corporate advisory and private client work.

Private client partner Clinton Jackson breaks down the key tax changes announced in the 2026 federal Budget, including proposed reforms to capital gains tax, negative gearing, and discretionary trust taxation. With draft legislation still under review and final rules yet to be determined, Jackson advises clients on what to watch for and when to take action.

The Supreme Court of New South Wales has ruled that insurers can deny indemnity and reduce liability to nil when an insured fails to disclose material changes in risk. This case examines how a pharmaceutical manufacturer's undisclosed pivot to hand sanitiser production during COVID-19, involving a fifteenfold increase in ethanol storage, led to a complete denial of coverage following a devastating fire.

Workplace regulation has entered a phase of convergence, where technology use, data governance, wage integrity and safety obligations are increasingly regulated as interconnected systems.

Trauma insurance claims in Australia face significant hurdles, from navigating complex policy definitions and medical evidence requirements to addressing pre-existing condition...