Australia has not been immune to the economic impacts of global financial and geopolitical events. The recent global economic downturn has brought about a heightened focus on financial stability and risk management in Australian businesses. Sponsors and financiers alike are now navigating a complex economic terrain marked by: volatile markets; supply chain disruptions; asset re-valuations;…
With businesses collapsing at levels not seen since 2012, Grant Thornton Australias John McInerney suggested that the small business restructuring scheme could be a more favourable option than a payment plan. He made the comments ahead of his session at the ACE24 Accounting Conference and Expo 2024, where he will unpack how accountants can help…
What is the Small Business Restructuring process? Australias Small Business Restructuring (SBR) process is a formal insolvency process introduced by the Federal Government in 2021 to give small businesses the opportunity to restructure their debts while directors remain in control of the business, under the supervision of a restructuring practitioner. The SBR process involves a…
Several of these factors contributed to the rising levels of formal insolvency appointments and distressed asset sales seen over the past year, which is likely to continue into 2024. In this article, we look back at, and think forward to, the trends and legal developments which businesses, insolvency professionals, accountants and investors need to be…
Advertorial ARYZAs new head of corporate insolvency, Tom OConnor. Aryza, a leading provider of financial software solutions, announces the appointment of Tom OConnoras its Head of Corporate Insolvency. With an extensive career spanning over a decade in the insolvency sector and a proven track record in product development and client engagement, Tom brings invaluable experience…
Business failures are on the rise in Britain, with several high-profile names lost already this year. But since the 1980s, the UK has made it a priority to throw a lifeline to struggling companies. It appears, however, that these efforts to enhance the law are being hampered by sloppy language in the media, increasing the…
The Federal Court’s recent decision in Stone (Liquidator), in the matter of RIC Admin Pty Ltd (in liq) v Mandalinic (No 2) [2024] FCA 164 demonstrates the analysis the courts will undertake in determining a director’s personal liability for insolvent trading, even when the director does not appear for the hearing. The case reiterates how…
Data from the Australian Financial Security Authority (AFSA) has found a significant rise in personal insolvencies for the March 2024 quarter. According to the report, there has been a 19.5% increase compared to the same period last year. Unsurprisingly, economic challenges have been contributing to this rise, including cost of living pressures. However, a large…
Australian agribusiness HS Fresh Food, known for its fresh salads, ready-made meals, and pre-prepared vegetable products, has entered into voluntary administration, impacting around 500 jobs. The company, which operates under brands such as Houston’s Farm, Sunfresh, and Gourmet Selections, and supplies to major retailers like Coles and Woolworths, appointed FTI Consulting administrators Vaughan Strawbridge, Joanne…
In short: Childcare group Precious Cargo has gone into voluntary administration. Founder and director Cheryl Shigrov says seven operating childcare centres are affected in South Australia. A further four non-trading entities are in liquidation. What’s next? She says the childcare centres will remain operational until a buyer is found. A Montessori childcare chain that has…