Due Diligence Checklist Before You Sign a Contract

Due Diligence – Who Exactly Are You Dealing With?

You’ve negotiated the deal, the contract looks solid… but do you really know who’s on the other side?

Due diligence isn’t just for high-stakes mergers, it’s a smart, simple step every business should take before signing on the dotted line.

Before you sign, ask yourself:

• Is the entity you’re dealing with actually registered and solvent?
• Are they a company, a trust, or a joint venture—and do you know which legal entity is on the hook?
• Are they under administration or liquidation?
• Are they a not-for-profit—and are they compliant?

A basic ASIC search can reveal if the company is active, but it’s worth going deeper. Credit bureaus like Equifax can provide financial red flags. And if you’re dealing with a charity or not-for-profit, the ACNC register should be your first stop.

The goal? Minimise risk and make sure the legal party you’re contracting with is the right one with the capacity to deliver.

I’ve put together a practical explainer on how to do your due diligence (and avoid costly surprises later).

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