Home » Legal Insights » Small business legal essentials for entrepreneurs in Cairns
Starting a business is exciting, engaging and inspiring, however, many small business owners find that they’ve lost the passion and momentum because of the sheer amount of legal aspects that they perhaps overlooked. WGC Lawyers is here to tell you that the regulatory and legal aspects of starting a business do not have to become overwhelming. All you need is legal assistance from an employment lawyer in Cairns to ensure compliance with national and state level regulations, while you focus on growing your business. Contact us today to know more about business taxes, contracts, duty of care and more.
Important Business Registrations
Depending the type of business you’re starting, you may need to register for the following tax numbers:
- Australian Business Number (ABN)
- Goods and Services Tax (GST)
- Tax file number (TFN)
- Pay as you go (PAYG) withholding.
Employee Contracts
As an employer, you are subject to certain legal obligations when you hire employees. In order to avoid costly workplace disputes, an employment lawyer in Cairns will insist that you set out an employment contract with each individual, whether it’s a junior sales representative or a new chief of finance. Contracts must clearly outline salaries, perks, responsibilities and other considerations.
Standards and Regulations
Employers are obligated to provide terms and working conditions that are aligned with National Employment Standards. There are also multiple laws that protect intellectual property and digital assets. For example, if your business stores a customer or employee’s personal information, you must handle the information in compliance with Australian Privacy Principles. Contact WGC Lawyers to consult with an experienced workplace lawyer in Cairns.
Duty of Care
Based on the nature of the business, employers are expected to implement workplace health and safety measures that reduce occupational hazards and prevent injury. Failure to meet safety law standards could lead to investigations, penalties and lengthy legal proceedings. If you are unclear about the workplace health and safety requirements for your business, contact an employment lawyer in Cairns with your questions.
Workplace Bullying and Discrimination
The Australian government has put measures in place to address and reduce unfortunate claims of workplace discrimination, bullying, unfair dismissal and more. Employers should take the time to understand the nature of such cases and how to prevent workplace disputes.
Highly Experienced Workplace Lawyer in Cairns
Not sure where to begin with small business legal compliance in Queensland? Contact WGC Lawyers today to consult with an experienced and approachable employment lawyer in Cairns.