ACCC grants relief
ACCC has granted interim authorisation to Suncorp, Allianz, QBE and other insurers and brokers to enable them to coordinate and implement relief measures for SME business policyholders suffering hardship due to the Covid-19 pandemic. ACCC did not conduct a public consultation process about the request for interim authorisation because of [...]
Web portal boosted to support SMEs
Small businesses struggling to cope with the Covid-19 crisis can access assistance through the My Business Health web portal. Australian Small Business and Family Enterprise Ombudsman Kate Carnell says the portal has been re-designed to walk small business owners and sole traders through practical steps to keep their businesses afloat. [...]
JobKeeper and award flexibility changes
On 9 April 2020, the Fair Work Act was amended to support implementation and operation of the JobKeeper scheme in Australian workplaces. The changes to the Act will now allow an employer who qualifies for JobKeeper payments to direct employees not to work, work reduced hours or work on different days [...]
Electronic signature use
With many businesses’ team members working from home, companies need to consider when electronic signatures are acceptable in contracts. Clyde & Co has provided a guide to explain when electronic signatures can be used in various corporate contracts - click here.
JobKeeper package passes Federal Parliament
Parliament has passed the JobKeeper package that will enable businesses significantly impacted by the CV-19 outbreak to access a subsidy from the Government to continue paying their employees. Click here for more information from the Federal Treasury. Other support information is available here: The ATO has advice on support, including [...]
Long service leave changes
The Long Service Leave Act in NSW has been changed to enable added flexibility due to the Covid-19 outbreak. Clyde & Co has provided an article detailing changes to the Act - click here.
ASIC/APRA deadline extended
Both ASIC and APRA have advised that, for the immediate future, any deadlines previously set in place will be postponed and reviewed again in September 2020. To see APRA’s advice, click here. For ASIC’s advice, click here. UAC will keep you advised of any changes as they are announced.