Aquarius Lawyers

04/06/2026

Climate change is increasingly reshaping the legal and regulatory landscape for businesses across all industries. For the seafood sector, which is intrinsically linked to ocean health and environmental stability, climate risk is not only an operational challenge but also a growing compliance and governance issue. Governments, regulators, investors and supply chain partners are demanding greater transparency regarding how businesses identify, manage and disclose climate-related risks.

Seafood companies—ranging from fishing operators and aquaculture enterprises to processors, exporters and retailers—are now facing heightened expectations around climate risk disclosure. These expectations extend beyond environmental stewardship and into corporate governance, financial reporting and supply chain due diligence.

This article examines the emerging legal framework surrounding climate risk disclosure, .

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03/06/2026

Who Can Legally Sign for Your Company When You're Not There?

Many Australian businesses operate without a Corporate Power of Attorney and don't realise the risks until a critical contract, finance document or regulatory approval needs urgent attention.

In the latest edition of Tide & Trial, we explore:

• what a Corporate Power of Attorney is

• how it differs from a personal Power of Attorney

• the governance benefits and risks

• how it supports business continuity and succession planning

• why every growing business should review its authority framework

Good governance isn't about preparing for failure—it's about preparing for continuity.

The Monthly Tide – Industry & Regulatory Snapshot Corporate Powers of Attorney – An Essential Risk Management Tool for Australian Companies Most business owners are familiar with personal Powers of Attorney, but far fewer understand the importance of a Corporate Power of Attorney. Yet for many c...

29/05/2026

ESTATE PLANNING! wHAT EVERY AUSTRALIAN NEEDS TO KNOW!
A well-structured estate plan ensures your affairs are managed both during your lifetime and after your passing.

A Valid And Up-To-Date Will
Enduring Power Of Attorney For Financial Decisions
Appointment Of Enduring Guardian For Health And Lifestyle Decisions
Clear Instructions For Asset Distribution
Consideration Of Tax And Legal Implications

Without these elements, your estate may be subject to default legal rules that do not reflect your intentions

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29/05/2026

Payday Super is coming—and it’s a game changer for small businesses.
From 1 July 2026, super must be paid at the same time as wages, replacing the quarterly system. Combined with the abolition of credit card surcharges, businesses face major shifts in cash flow and compliance.

Now is the time to review your payroll systems, plan ahead, and avoid costly penalties.
If you’re unsure how this impacts your business or your employees’ rights, get advice early.

Australia’s superannuation system is undergoing one of its most significant operational changes in decades. The introduction of “Payday Super” will fundamentally alter how and when employers must pay superannuation contributions. At the same time, the Federal Government has flagged reforms to ...

28/05/2026

Before entering into any transaction, it is important to understand the legal framework that governs property purchases in Australia.

Property Transactions Are Governed By State And Territory Legislation
Contracts Are Legally Binding Once Exchanged
Cooling-Off Periods May Apply (Depending On Jurisdiction And Circumstances)
Title Registration Confirms Legal Ownership
Due Diligence Must Be Completed Prior To Committing To Purchase
If buying in a Self-Managed Super Fund (SMSF) the Trust must be established prior to property exchange.

Engaging a lawyer early in the process can help identify risks before they become liabilities.

27/05/2026

Meet the Driving Force Behind Aquarius Lawyers
Katherine Hawes, Principal Solicitor at Aquarius Lawyers, has built her career at the intersection of law for commercial businesses in the aquaculture, wild catch, marine, shipping and sustainability space.
In our latest blog, we share her journey:
🔹 From early legal practice to industry leadership
🔹 How she supports aquaculture, fishering and marine businesses with cutting-edge advice
🔹 Her vision for a legally resilient, sustainable seafood industry
Katherine’s leadership continues to set benchmarks for clarity, innovation, and industry trust.
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Introduction Behind every successful firm is a leader who blends expertise with vision. At Aquarius Lawyers, that leader is Katherine Hawes, Principal Solicitor. With decades of experience in law, business, and education, Katherine has positioned herself as one of Australia’s leading voices in fis...

27/05/2026

Thinking About Setting Up a Company in Australia?

The right business structure can protect your assets, support growth and secure your future — but it also comes with important legal responsibilities.

In the latest edition of Tide & Trial, Aquarius Lawyers explores:
• the benefits of operating through a company
• director duties and governance obligations
• common risks business owners overlook
• how proper structuring supports succession and asset protection

A good business deserves a strong legal foundation.

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Thinking About Setting Up a Company in Australia? The right business structure can protect your assets, support growth and secure your future — but it also comes with important legal responsibilities. In the latest edition of Tide & Trial, Aquarius Lawyers explores: • the benefits of operating t...

17/05/2026

DRUG DRIVING OFFENCES
Drug driving offences are taken extremely seriously across Australia, with strict laws in place to deter motorists from operating vehicles under the influence of illicit or impairing substances. Unlike drink driving, where impairment is linked to a measurable blood alcohol concentration, drug driving laws often operate on a “presence” basis—meaning you can be charged even if you are not visibly impaired.

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14/05/2026

WHAT TO DO IF YOUR CHARGED WITH DRINK DRIVING?
Being charged with drink driving can be a stressful and confronting experience. In New South Wales, drink driving offences are treated seriously, with immediate licence suspensions, court proceedings, and potential criminal penalties. Understanding your legal position early can significantly improve your outcome and help you avoid costly mistakes.

This guide outlines the key steps to take if you are charged with a drink driving offence in NSW.

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Being charged with drink driving can be a stressful and confronting experience. In New South Wales, drink driving offences are treated seriously, with immediate licence suspensions, court proceedings, and potential criminal penalties. Understanding your legal position early can significantly improve...

12/05/2026

rug Driving Charges Are Rising Across Australia

Do you actually know what happens if you test positive during a roadside drug test?

In the latest edition of Tide & Trial, Aquarius Lawyers breaks down:
• how drug driving laws really work
• what police need to prove
• what to do — and what NOT to do — during roadside testing
• how a charge can affect your licence, employment and future

For commercial operators, one roadside stop can have serious consequences.

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Drug Driving Charges Are Rising Across Australia Do you actually know what happens if you test positive during a roadside drug test? In the latest edition of Tide & Trial, Aquarius Lawyers breaks down: • how drug driving laws really work • what police need to prove • what to do — and what NO...