App - short for ‘application’- is the same thing as a software program. While an app may refer to a program for any hardware platform, it is most often used to describe programs for mobile devices, such as smartphones and tablets. Releasing an app can be a big step for any business. With an
The 101 of Retail Leases in Queensland
For all those Queenslanders that are taking the first step and leasing a retail space, this is an exciting moment. It's the time where your online business or side hustle from home turns into an actual brick and mortar store – a big step which only demonstrates that your business and your idea is
Incorporated Associations: Transition into a company structure
Do you run an incorporated association and are looking to restructure into a company structure? Let us explore what you need to consider and do to make that happen. Restructuring any not-for-profit organisation depends upon the organisation type, whether it is an incorporation and what
What is the difference between Business Names, Company Names and Trade Marks
Are a business name, company name and a trade mark all the same thing? No, not really. In short, these three names have different meanings, different uses and are registered in different ways. Regardless of the type of name that you are looking to register, you need to undertake
How do I apply for a trademark?
Lots of businesses in Australia and around the world struggle to conceptualise the value of registering and protecting their brand through registering a trade mark. A trade mark is used to distinguish the goods and services of one trader from those of another. The owner has exclusive rights to
Applying for a Patent
All patents in Australia are registered with IP Australia and usually completed through IP Australia’s online e-services platform. To help you plan out your patent application, IP Australia has created a nifty application guide that will help prepare your patent application for a seamless
What is a patent and do I need a patent?
A patent is a right that is granted for any device, substance, method or process that is new, useful and innovative or inventive. A patent gives an exclusive right to commercially exploit an invention for the life of the patent. Breaking this down a little, a patent is basically a registered
Pre-Lease Checklist
A lease is a legally binding document between a tenant (known as the lessee) and a landlord (known as the lessor). A lease allows a tenant to occupy an area - like a whole building - or a part of an area - - like a shop front in a shopping centre – which are usually known as the premises. It is
Do I need a privacy policy?
Privacy policies seem mundane and only add to the hoops a business or their website has to jump through to be compliant. However, these policies are becoming increasingly important as our Australian and international laws become more focussed on the protection of personal data received from clients,
Do I need terms and conditions?
If your business operates a website, or sells products or services either in a shopfront or online, then it is highly recommended that you have some sort of terms of use or terms and conditions (T&Cs) outlining the relationship between you and your customers. You shouldn’t undervalue a good
Do I need a trust?
A trust is a legal structure used to run a business. While trusts may seem complicated at first, a trust can save a business money by providing significant tax benefits. A trust imposes a legal obligation on a trustee. A trustee is a person administering the trust, to carry out the business. A
What is a Partnership?
A partnership is a business structure in which the business is owned and operated by two or more business partners. In a partnership, management of the business is shared. Unlike as a sole trader, all partners are responsible for the debts and losses of the business. This means one partner can be