From major players to grassroots clubs and associations, sport is woven into the fabric of Australian life and forms an integral part of local communities. But behind the scenes, are complex laws and regulations governing the games we love and play. Sport in Australia exists within a matrix of legislation, law and policy. Sports law covers matters such as the legal structures used to set up and manage teams and clubs, licensing, sponsorship, employment, communication with stakeholders and management of player/club procedures.
TED Legal’s sports lawyers provide legal services for sporting organisations and individual athletes who face unique challenges and issues when competing in professional or amateur sports. We can help with:
- Media and broadcast rights and compliance
- Contracts and sponsorship agreements – from multi-million-dollar endorsement deals for elite athletes to standard player contracts at your local footy club
- Intellectual property and trademark protection – team logos, slogans, images and signage, and even the broadcast itself are all forms of intellectual property and protecting these assets is crucial for clubs and organisations
- Merchandising law and sports endorsements
- Advice on the best way to handle injuries
- Marketing compliance for advertising and promotion – including the best way to run competitions/promotions to comply with gaming legislation
- Public liability law for sporting venues – including guidelines for safety
- Commercial/business transactions – including ticketing and financial transfers
- Advice for player and team security – to protect players and fans
- Governance and regulation – advice on the Corporations Act, setting up business entities, drafting constitutional laws/by-laws, and advice for club directors
- Advice on matters involving performance-enhancing drugs including assistance with drafting anti-doping policies and legal representation for athletes in court
The legal considerations for athletes, clubs and volunteers participating in sport are vast and constantly evolving. As sport continues to play a central role in Australian culture, sports law will remain a critical part of ensuring fair play, protecting athletes, and upholding the integrity of the games we love.
Our clients include sporting organisations, athletes, event organisers, teams, agents, government agencies and sponsors of sporting events. Bringing decades of specialised expertise in sports law, property and commercial law, director, Dwane Bugden has a deep understanding of the unique challenges facing the industry and has acted for some of the country’s biggest sporting names and organisations.
If you need assistance contact [email protected] or call 07 5657 8919.