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Buying and Selling a Business in Queensland

Are you looking to buy or sell a business in Queensland?

There are many legal issues to consider before you buy or sell a business. Whether you are stepping into ownership or preparing for an exit, the transaction involves more than agreeing on a price. The structure of the deal, the contract terms, the assets and liabilities being transferred, and how risks are managed can all have long-term financial and legal consequences.

At Argon Law, our commercial lawyers help business owners buy and sell businesses with clarity and confidence. Our role is to protect your interests, identify risks early, and ensure the transaction is structured in a way that supports your commercial goals.

We act for buyers and sellers across a wide range of industries, from small to medium sized businesses through to larger corporate transactions. Our advice is practical, commercially focused, and tailored to the realities of running a business.

Our team of experienced commercial lawyers also offer a comprehensive suite of legal services in the Mergers and Acquisitions space which covers more complex transactions.

Buying a Business in Queensland – What Should I Consider?

When buying a business, it is essential to understand exactly what you are acquiring. This includes the business assets, goodwill, contracts, intellectual property, employees, licenses, and any liabilities that may transfer with the sale. Our commercial lawyers assist buyers by reviewing or preparing the contract, assisting you to conduct legal due diligence, and advising on risk areas that may impact the value or operation of the business after settlement.

We work with you to ensure key protections are built into the contract, such as conditions precedent, restraint clauses, appropriate warranties, and clear settlement arrangements. Our aim is to help you avoid unexpected issues after you take over the business.

Selling a Business in Queensland – What Should I Consider?

For sellers, preparing a business for sale involves more than finding a buyer. The way the transaction is structured can affect tax outcomes, ongoing liability exposure, and the smooth handover of the business. We assist sellers by preparing or reviewing contracts of sale, negotiating terms, managing disclosure obligations, and guiding you through settlement. We look to structure the transaction in a way to minimise the chance of the deal falling over.

Our business sales lawyers also help ensure the sale process aligns with your broader objectives, whether that is a clean exit, a staged transition, or ongoing involvement in the business post-sale. Find out more about how the Argon Law team can support both small businesses and larger business and companies with their business sale.

What do Business Sales & Purchases Involve?

Business sales and purchases often involve multiple moving parts. These can include lease assignments, landlord consent, finance approvals, employee transfers, regulatory requirements, and coordination with accountants and brokers. Argon Law will manage the legal aspects of the transaction while working collaboratively with your other advisers to keep the process efficient and commercially sound.

Our experience in commercial law means we understand that timing, certainty, and risk management are critical. Our team focuses on clear communication, practical solutions, and outcomes that allow you to move forward with confidence.

If you are considering buying or selling a business, early legal advice can make a significant difference. Engaging Argon Law at the beginning of the process allows potential issues to be identified and addressed before they become costly or disruptive.

Contact the team at Argon Law to discuss your business sale or purchase today.

Frequently Asked Questions about Buying or Selling a Business in Queensland

Q. Do I need a lawyer to buy or sell a business?

A. While not legally required, engaging a lawyer is strongly recommended. A business sale involves complex legal and commercial risks that are not always obvious from the contract alone. Legal advice helps ensure you understand what you are agreeing to and protects you from avoidable issues.

Q. What is included when buying a business?

A. This depends on how the sale is structured. A business sale may include assets, goodwill, intellectual property, stock, plant and equipment, and sometimes employees and contracts. We help clarify exactly what is included and what is excluded.

Q. What is due diligence and why is it important?

A. Due diligence is the process of reviewing the legal, financial, and operational aspects of a business before completing the purchase. It helps identify risks such as unfavourable contracts, compliance issues, or hidden liabilities.

Q. Can I negotiate the terms of a business sale contract?

A. Yes. Most business sale contracts are negotiable, and our commercial lawyers can assist with negotiating terms such as price adjustments, restraints of trade, warranties, managing the transfer of existing employees, settlement timing, and conditions that protect your position. You can find out more about business sale contracts here.

Q. What happens to employees when a business is sold?

A. Employees may transfer to the buyer, depending on the structure of the sale. This can have legal and financial implications for both parties. We advise on employee entitlements, transfer arrangements, and compliance obligations.

Q. When should I seek legal advice when buying or selling a business?

A. Ideally, before signing any heads of agreement or contract. Early advice allows issues to be addressed upfront and reduces the risk of delays or disputes later in the process.

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