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Australia Law

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Australia Law: Your Gateway to Success Down Under.

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Unlocking Opportunities in the Australian Market

Make Harris Sliwoski your trusted partner for navigating the legal complexities of doing business in Australia. Our Australian affiliate law team, led by Mathew Alderson, offers not only a deep understanding of Australian law but also a global perspective, ensuring seamless entry and robust growth for your Australia business ventures.

Australia Practice

Australia offers  a transparent, well-regulated, and politically stable environment, making it an attractive destination for foreign investment. The World Bank’s Doing Business reports consistently rank Australia among the top 20 countries for ease of doing business, with a straightforward and affordable startup environment. The country’s highly skilled workforce, multicultural society, and excellent living standards further enhance its appeal for international investors.

Why Invest in Australia?

  • Strong Economy: Australia ranks among the world’s 20 largest economies, with a per capita GDP comparable to that of the UK, France, and Germany.
  • Skilled Workforce: Over 67% of Australia’s working-age population holds a degree, diploma, or trade qualification, contributing to its dynamic labor market.
  • Global Connectivity: Nearly half of Australia’s 25 million residents were born overseas or have immigrant parents, creating a diverse and globally connected business culture.

Australia’s Legal Framework

Australia operates under a stable federal democracy, where power is shared between the federal government and state/territory governments. The federal system resembles the U.S. model, while its parliamentary processes are based on the UK’s Westminster system.

  • The federal government regulates taxation, foreign investment, banking, telecommunications, intellectual property, and international trade.
  • State and territory governments oversee education, health, policing, and local infrastructure, while local councils manage land use, development, and planning laws.

Australia’s legal system is rooted in the British common law tradition, with legislation shaped by both parliaments and independent judiciary decisions.

  • High Court of Australia: The highest court, with ultimate jurisdiction over federal and state matters.
  • Federal Court: Handles appeals and matters of corporate law, immigration, and industrial relations.
  • State Supreme Courts: Each state or territory has a Supreme Court, with divisions handling civil and criminal appeals.

Businesses benefit from the transparent and accessible judicial system, ensuring fair enforcement of contracts, intellectual property protections, and dispute resolution.

Why Choose Harris Sliwoski for Your Australian Legal Needs?

  • Comprehensive Expertise: We offer a wide range of legal services, covering all aspects of business operations in Australia—from intellectual property to mergers and acquisitions.
  • Strategic Guidance: We provide not just legal advice but also strategic insights to help you achieve your business goals.
  • Unwavering Commitment: Our dedication is to exceed your expectations and foster long-term partnerships.

Australia’s combination of economic strength, governmental support, skilled workforce, and a robust legal framework makes it an ideal environment for international businesses. Whether you are expanding into new markets, pursuing M&A opportunities, or setting up operations, Harris Sliwoski provides the legal expertise to help your business succeed in Australia. Contact us today to learn how we can assist with your business ventures Down Under.

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Mathew Alderson: Leading Our Australian Affiliate Practice

Mathew Alderson, an international transactional lawyer and corporate advisor, heads our Australian affiliate practice based in Sydney. With over 25 years of legal experience in Australia and China (and nearly 15 years with Harris Sliwoski), Mathew has developed unparalleled expertise in international transactions involving both Australia and China, especially those that are IP-heavy.

Now splitting his time between Shanghai and Sydney, Mathew brings his extensive knowledge to a burgeoning practice in Australia. Mathew is instrumental in helping foreign companies navigate their legal affairs in Australia and collaborating with our U.S. and E.U. attorneys to support Australian companies abroad. Mathew also assists our cannabis clients with their Australia legal matters.

Australian Law Expertise:

  • Business Formation and Establishment: Guidance on entity selection, registration, regulatory compliance, and licensing.
  • Mergers and Acquisitions: Support for corporate transactions including joint ventures.
  • Commercial Transactions: Expertise in drafting contracts, advising on business agreements, and ensuring adherence to Australian commercial law.
  • Foreign Direct Investment: Assistance in establishing a presence in Australia, including navigating government regulations and approvals.
  • Intellectual Property Protection: Protection for trademarks, patents, and copyrights.
  • Employment Law: Advice on contracts, workplace policies, and compliance with labour regulations.
  • Real Estate Law: Support for property acquisition, development, and leasing.
  • Cannabis Law: Guidance for businesses in the regulatory, licensing, and commercial aspects of the cannabis industry.
  • Dispute Resolution: Techniques including negotiation, mediation, and litigation to resolve disputes efficiently.
  • Data Protection and Privacy Law: Ensuring compliance with Australian data privacy regulations.
  • Technology and Telecommunications Law: Advice on technology-related matters such as software licensing and cybersecurity.
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Beyond Legal Expertise: Your Trusted Partner in Australia

Harris Sliwoski is more than just a law firm; we and our affiliate firm are your strategic partners in Australia. Leveraging our extensive network and local market knowledge, we connect you with the resources and expertise you need to succeed.

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Contact us today to schedule a consultation and discover how Harris Sliwoski and its affiliate firm can help you unlock the full potential of the Australian market.

Get in Touch with Our Australia Law Team

Get started by filling out the form, or call 1-888-330-0010 to schedule a free initial consultation.

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