International Lawyers in Melbourne
Trusted guidance for overseas businesses and global brands operating in Australia
Helping international clients navigate the Australian legal landscape.
MST Lawyers provides practical legal support to international businesses, franchisors and investors with operations or interests in Australia. We work with global clients to ensure local compliance, protect commercial interests, and resolve disputes involving cross-border elements.
Cross-border legal services across key practice areas
Even if you’re managing operations from overseas, you still have Australian legal obligations. Our team ensures you stay compliant across employment, franchising, and commercial matters – giving you peace of mind and local support when you need it most.
At MST Lawyers, we regularly assist overseas franchisors looking to enter the Australian market. Our team advises on how to structure and document franchise arrangements, and ensures compliance with the Franchising Code of Conduct so that your expansion is both smooth and legally sound.
We also work closely with international companies employing staff in Australia. From employment contracts and workplace policies to navigating Fair Work compliance, we provide clear and practical advice to help you meet your obligations and manage risk.
If you need to enforce a foreign judgment in Australia, we can guide you through the process. Whether a judgment is enforceable here depends on its country of origin, and we can advise on whether it qualifies and help you register it through the appropriate Australian court.
> Corporate Structuring
A foreign business entering into the Australian market has a choice between:
- continuing to operate through the same foreign entity but a foreign company cannot carry on business in Australia unless it is registered to do so; or
- setting up an Australian domiciled entity which will be owned and controlled by the foreign entity. An Australian company will require an Australian based director and Australian law imposes very significant obligations and potential personal liability on directors
The choice of structure can be key to a foreign entrants success and the structure requires careful consideration of factors such as financial reporting requirements, which differ between foreign registered companies and foreign controlled Australian companies, local personnel/agents and tax implications. We will work with your financial advisers to navigate through these issues.
> Franchise Law
Franchising across borders brings opportunity – but also added layers of legal complexity. MST Lawyers regularly works with international franchisors looking to enter or expand within the Australian market. We guide you through compliance with the Franchising Code of Conduct, help structure master franchise and direct franchising, area development agreements, and support you in building a legally sound franchise network in Australia. If issues arise, our franchise lawyers can assist with resolving disputes and enforcing foreign judgments in Australian courts.
> Employment Law
Hiring and managing staff in Australia is different to doing so elsewhere. We support international businesses that are setting up operations here – making sure employment contracts, policies and practices align with Australian law. Whether it’s understanding Modern Awards, complying with the Fair Work Act, or advising on visa pathways and workplace disputes, our Employment Lawyers offers straightforward, local advice to help you manage your workforce with confidence.
> Dispute Resolution & Litigation
When legal disputes cross international borders, they can quickly become complex. MST Lawyers’ Litigation and Disputes Lawyers helps overseas clients and Australian businesses involved in cross-border disputes navigate these challenges strategically. We act in commercial litigation involving foreign parties, assist with jurisdictional issues, and work alongside international counsel where needed. We also advise on registering and enforcing foreign court judgments in Australia, so you can take action with clarity and direction.
Meet the legal team dedicated to your success
The International Law legal team
OUR Clients
Serving both individuals and businesses
Our clients span industries, backgrounds, and needs, each relying on MST Lawyers for dedicated, effective legal support.
Schedule a consultation with our international legal team
If your business operates internationally or is expanding into Australia, MST Lawyers can support you with clear, commercial legal advice. Please call (03) 8540 0200 or request a consultation using our contact form.
FAQS
Some common international law questions
We assist with structuring advice and with setting up the appropriate business structures and associated documents and agreements, such as shareholders agreements or joint venture agreements.
Yes. We advise on structuring and documenting franchise arrangements, and ensure compliance with Australian franchise legislation.
Absolutely. We support foreign companies hiring in Australia with contracts, policies, and Fair Work compliance.
Enforcing a foreign judgment depends on whether it’s from a recognised jurisdiction. We can advise on the enforceability and process to register the judgment in Australia.
Yes. Operating in Australia triggers various legal obligations—our team ensures you remain compliant while protecting your commercial interests.
Protecting IP in Australia involves registering trademarks, patents, and designs with IP Australia. International clients should also consider international treaties like the Madrid Protocol for trademark protection. Legal counsel can assist in developing an IP strategy that aligns with business objectives and ensures adequate protection under Australian law.
Foreign businesses looking to establish operations in Australia must choose an appropriate business structure, such as registering a proprietary limited company or setting up a branch office. This process involves compliance with the Corporations Act 2001, obtaining an Australian Business Number (ABN), and possibly registering for Goods and Services Tax (GST). Engaging local legal counsel can help navigate these requirements effectively.linkedin.com
Certain investments by foreign entities in Australia require approval from the FIRB to ensure they are not contrary to the national interest. This includes acquisitions of substantial interests in Australian businesses or land. The process involves submitting an application detailing the investment proposal, after which the FIRB assesses the application and provides a decision, typically within 30 days.linkedin.com
International employers may encounter challenges such as understanding and complying with Australia’s employment laws, including the Fair Work Act, Modern Awards, and enterprise agreements. Issues may also arise in areas like workplace health and safety, discrimination laws, and employee entitlements. It’s crucial to obtain local legal advice to ensure compliance and mitigate risks.
Cross-border disputes may be resolved through litigation in Australian courts or alternative dispute resolution methods like arbitration and mediation. Australia is a signatory to the New York Convention, facilitating the enforcement of international arbitration awards. Legal professionals experienced in international law can guide clients through the appropriate dispute resolution mechanisms.
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News and insights from the MST Team
As a full-service multi-displinary firm, we offer expert legal advice across the following areas: