For the benefit of our clients and friends investing in European distressed opportunities, our European Network is sharing some current developments

Recent Developments

This is the twenty-ninth in our series of General Counsel Updates which aim to summarise major developments in key areas.

In summary

In our previous alert we discussed how Justice Markovic in the Federal Court of Australia had granted the administrators of retailer Colette Group relief from personal liability for rent in respect of 93 stores.  

It is clear that there are going to be incredible impacts to businesses and companies of all sizes as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic. No business will be immune to the impact of this health epidemic. Across the globe, governments have responded in various ways to change insolvency laws in an attempt to provide assistance to those businesses affected directly or indirectly by COVID-19. Australia is no different and the Federal and State Governments have responded quickly to the crisis.

*This information is accurate as of 9.00 am Wednesday 25 March 2020 and is subject to change as this situation evolves.

A tenant's solvency, or its risk of insolvency, is not a novel concern for landlords and tenants alike. But the unprecedented COVID-19 pandemic is putting corporate tenant solvency risk into the hot spotlight arguably like never before, and for good reason.

The equitable doctrine of marshalling can protect the security interests of subordinate secured creditors when a debtor becomes insolvent.

Marshalling is a neglected tool in the insolvency toolbox, but it can play an important role in protecting the security interests of subordinate secured creditors.

ASIC’s record with land banking schemes has been the story of shutting the stable door after the horse has bolted. It has wound up insolvent schemes long after the investor’s cash has well and truly dissipated.

For example:

In December 2018, NSW building certifier Watson Oldco entered into voluntary administration. The AFR reports that administrators have attributed the move largely to the result of uninsured exposure to potential claims arising from buildings with combustible cladding. Although there were no known claims against Watson Oldco, it was reported that there was uninsured exposure which led to the decision to place the company into voluntary administration.

Can the Trustee in Bankruptcy claim an interest in the family home because the bankrupt is living there, even if the bankrupt is not registered on the title as an owner?

The short answer is yes: if the Trustee can prove a common intention constructive trust.

Background Facts