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Keeping up with legal updates can be overwhelming and confusing. If you’re like most of my clients, you’ve probably felt unsure about where to source reliable information. With the huge amount of content floating around online, it’s easy to get lost in what's accurate and applicable to you. So, today I’m guiding you through some critical legal changes you need to be aware of as a service-based small business owner.

Wage Compliance

One topic gaining significant attention is wage compliance. As of 1st January, intentionally underpaying employees is now a criminal offence. If you’re uncertain about your compliance, I strongly encourage you to consult the Fair Work website, particularly the Voluntary Small Business Wage Compliance Code. Making sure you're on the right side of this law is crucial so engage your accountant or legal team to ensure you’re meeting all necessary standards.

Understanding Privacy Law Overhauls

The privacy legislation is outdated and the current exemptions for small businesses are going to be removed, which means privacy compliance is not an option - it’s a necessity.

You need to have a compliant privacy policy accessible on the home page of your website, showcasing transparency with your clients about how you handle their data. Particularly in this climate where more and more people are doing things online, being crystal clear on your compliance with the way you manage personal data is essential.

The Right to Disconnect

Don’t worry - you’re not going to jail if one of your employees gets an email from a client out of business hours. But make sure that you start discussions with your team now to establish clear after-hours communication policies. Understanding what’s reasonable in your specific context is crucial to ensuring compliance.

Industry Specific - Tax and BAS agents

For tax and BAS agents, new mandates from 1st July will require stricter adherence to record-keeping and quality management standards. Ensure your documents, disclosures, and client agreements reflect these changes. There is a lot of information here, so if you're overwhelmed by everything you need to go through, my advice is to make a list and start from the top.

Industry Specific - Interior Designers

For those in construction or interior design, pay attention to the ban on importing certain engineered stone products like benchtops, panels and slabs. You have a positive obligation now to know what's banned and what's not. Make sure you keep this front of mind when making selections with your clients.

Unfair Contract Terms

It’s absolutely vital that your client service agreements do not include any unfair contract terms, particularly when it comes to your termination clause. If there are any unfair terms, your entire contract will be considered null and void and you’ll have absolutely nothing to stand on.

With everything when it comes to business law, staying compliant involves constant vigilance and surrounding yourself with the right professionals. If you’re unsure about any changes to the law, feel free to reach out. I’d love to help.

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