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Our services
Process
Our contract review follows a structured, technical analysis against current Australian employment law. We begin with a clause-by-clause examination, cross-referencing terms with the Fair Work Act 2009 (Cth) and relevant modern awards. Listed lawyers specifically scrutinise termination provisions, redundancy entitlements, intellectual property assignments, and post-employment restraints for reasonableness under common law tests. For instance, a non-compete clause exceeding 6 months in a standard role is often deemed unenforceable. We then provide a detailed written report, typically within 5 business days, categorising issues by risk level—critical, high, or advisory—with clear recommendations for negotiation or amendment. This process is detailed further in our guide on how severance pay is calculated.
Local Considerations — Australia
Employment law application can vary subtly across Australian states and territories, particularly regarding the enforcement of restraint of trade clauses, which are generally viewed more strictly in New South Wales compared to Victoria. The industrial landscape also differs; for example, major project agreements in Western Australia's mining sector or enterprise agreements in the financial services hubs of Sydney and Melbourne often contain complex, bespoke clauses requiring specific scrutiny. Our national team is structured to address these jurisdictional nuances, with lawyers experienced in the case law and industrial relations frameworks of each region. This ensures advice is not only legally sound but also pragmatically tailored to your local market, whether you are in Brisbane, Adelaide, or Perth.
At a Glance
| Parameter | Reference Value |
|---|---|
| Standard Review Turnaround | 3-5 business days |
| Key Legislation | Fair Work Act 2009 (Cth) |
| Common High-Risk Clause | Restraint of Trade |
| Typical Report Length | 8-12 pages |
| Service Coverage | National |
Standards & Compliance
- Fair Work Act 2009 (Cth)
- Common Law Contract Principles
- Relevant Modern Award
- Independent Contractors Act 2006 (Cth)
Request a Quote
Our team reviews your project and issues an initial report at no cost.
Or write us directly at info@employmentlawyer24.com
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the most common 'red flag' you find in employment contracts?
Overly broad restraint of trade clauses are prevalent. These attempt to restrict your future work in an unreasonable geographic area, timeframe, or scope of activity, often beyond what is necessary to protect the employer's legitimate business interests.
How long do I have to review a contract before signing?
There is no statutory cooling-off period for employment contracts. Once signed, you are generally bound. We advise clients to never sign under pressure and to always seek a review, which we can typically complete within a few business days.
Can you help if I've already signed a contract with problematic clauses?
Yes. While more complex, a post-signature review can identify unenforceable terms and outline strategies for future negotiation or legal challenge if the employer seeks to enforce an unfair clause.
How much does an employment contract review cost in Australia?
Fees depend on the contract's complexity, length, and the required turnaround. A standard review for a full-time employee typically ranges from $880 to $2,200 (incl. GST). We provide fixed-fee quotes upfront after assessing your document, as a bespoke review ensures all industry-specific clauses are properly analysed.