Articles
Our articles are published by Sarah Stoddart. Sarah writes our articles on changes to legislation, relevant case law and other topics of interest to keep clients informed and up to date.

When festive fun turns to fire – How to mitigate the employer’s legal hangover!
A few drinks can quickly turn into a serious legal hangover for employers. Before the end of year party, employers need to ensure they have the best protection against a claim that can easily arise as a result of a work related function that goes too far.
…the tough get going – Termination of employment
Terminating an employee without first engaging in a performance management process and following best practice procedures exposes the employer to a risk of a claim for unfair dismissal and/or adverse action.
Performance management and warnings – When the going gets tough…
Performance managing employees is an important but complex and time consuming process. The risks to employers can be significant. There are a number of steps which employers can take to minimise the risks associated with performance management, issuing warnings and terminating an employee.
What’s in a name? Getting approval when you change the name of your pharmacy.
Changing the name of your pharmacy business can be an exciting time. It might mean a new brand, new colours and new signage. One element which is often overlooked in the change of name process is regulatory approval. It is a legislative requirements in most...
Help or hindrance – The role of a support person
Employees are entitled to have a support person present during any meetings with their employer relating to the employee’s performance, a workplace investigation or disciplinary action. Although the support person may ask questions about the process or to help the employee understand what is being asked of them, the support person is predominantly an observer only.
Rule 136…the application is in. What happens next?
You’ve lodged your application under Rule 136 of the Pharmacy Location Rules. You’re wondering, what happens next? We have the answers.
Pharmacy Council of NSW introduces immediate changes to the pharmacy approval process
The Pharmacy Council of NSW has introduced changes to the pharmacy approval application process, effective immediately. Our latest article highlights the key changes applicants need to know.
Purchasing a business – A practical checklist
There is a lot to think about when purchasing a business. Combined with the emotion of the experience, it can be easy to overlook some of the practical steps that need to be taken to ensure a smooth transition to ownership. Here is a checklist of items to remember or action when purchasing a business.
Federal Court decision changes the game for large medical centre applications
A recent decision of the Federal Court of Australia is likely to significantly impact on applications made under Rule 136 of the Pharmacy Location Rules (large medical centre). It is a requirement of Rule 136 that a large medical centre operate for at least 70 hours...
Working with a Lawyer – 5 tips for a positive experience!
Regardless of whether you are working with a lawyer as a one-off or on a regular basis, there are some key steps which can be taken to make the most of working with your lawyer and to ensure a positive professional working relationship.
s172(1) Notices and the Requirement to Produce Documents to Queensland Health
Under the Pharmacy Business Ownership Act 2001 (Qld) ("Act"), pharmacists are required to notify the Queensland Department of Health ("Queensland Health") of changes of ownerships of a pharmacy business and of changes of ownership particulars of a pharmacy business. ...
When to tell your staff you’ve sold
A sale of business results in all employees being terminated by the seller with effect from close of business on the day before the settlement date. All employees must be given prior notice of termination and either required to work out the notice period or paid in lieu of notice.