Class Actions
CMC dodges bid for Baker McKenzie invoices amid class action security push
CMC Markets has avoided production of unredacted solicitors' invoices to support a bid for $8.6 million to cover costs in a class action, despite the applicant arguing the trading platform's legal team was "top-heavy” and the security application unprecedented.
Competition & Consumer Protection
Microsoft denies ACCC claims, says classic plan only for cancelling customers
Though previously acknowledging it "could have been clearer" Microsoft has hit back at claims it duped millions of customers into upgrading to more expensive product plans, saying its cheaper, 'legacy' plan was only available to subscribers who sought to cancel.
Employment
Wisetech’s head of tax was sacked after bullying complaints, suit says
Wisetech's former head of tax is suing the company, claiming she was unfairly sacked after making complaints about bullying, under-resourcing and excessive work hours.
Legal Ethics
Top judge talks up importance of collegiality, risks of social media
NSW's top judge has warned of the dangers of social media and the importance of collegiality among the judiciary, following a controversial speech by a federal judge who called out colleagues for tardy judgments.
ACCC
Merger regime would face valuable test if Coles appeals ACCC decision, lawyers say
Competition lawyers are watching with interest to see if Coles appeals the ACCC's decision to block its proposed acquisition of a leasehold interest in a site in Kalgoorlie, with a tribunal review to provide a valuable early test of the new merger regime.
Allens
Allens adds climate change pro to partnership
Allens has welcomed a globally recognised climate change lawyer and her team of four to the firm, amid an expected uptick in greenwashing and directors' duty claims.
Tax
ATO to refund Star $33M to settle dispute over GST on junket payments
The Star has settled a long-running dispute with the ATO over GST on payments made to junket operators, with the ATO agreeing to refund $33 million of the $88 million in dispute.
Intellectual Property
Hugo Boss loses opposition to designer jewellery brand’s TM
Hugo Boss has failed in its challenge to jeweller Monizi's 'with Bossa' trade mark, after an IP Australia delegate found a consumer of ordinary intelligence would distinguish it from the German fashion label's brand.
ACMA
Online gambling company dealt $24M penalty for illegal poker
An illegal online poker company, its director and a promoter of its service have been hit with a combined $24 million in penalties, with a judge doubling the penalty ACMA recommended against the promoter.
ASIC
Ex-CEO of coconut water company wins appeal of conviction
The former CEO of the company behind coconut water brand CoCo Joy has succeeded in overturning one of three criminal convictions following an ASIC investigation.
