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Legal guide · Victoria

Do I need a shareholders agreement?

If you’re in business with other people, yes — a shareholders agreement sets the rules before things go wrong. It’s far cheaper than the dispute it prevents.

Business & commercial

If you own a company with other people, a shareholders agreement sets out the rules between the owners — how decisions are made, what happens if someone wants out, and how disputes are resolved. Without one, you rely on the default rules and goodwill, which can fail badly.

What it should cover

Decision-making and voting, what each person contributes, how shares can be sold or transferred, what happens if an owner dies, leaves or falls out, dividends, and dispute resolution.

Why it matters

Most business disputes between owners come down to things a shareholders agreement would have settled up front. It’s cheap insurance against an expensive falling-out.

How we help

We prepare shareholders agreements tailored to your business, and review one before you sign. Book a consult to get it right from the start.

Common questions

Good to know

Do I need one if we’re just two founders?

Yes — that’s exactly when it matters. A shareholders agreement sets the rules before any disagreement, protecting both of you.

What does it cover?

Decision-making, contributions, selling shares, what happens if an owner leaves or dies, dividends and dispute resolution.

General information only — for advice about your situation, see more guides or book a consult with ORLA Legal.

In business with others? Protect yourself.

Speak with an experienced Victorian lawyer — book online, or call us 24/7.

The ORLA group · one team

Buying, selling or refinancing? We handle the whole move.

ORLA Legal works hand-in-glove with our sister services, so your loan, your conveyancing and your property search are coordinated by one team — all the way to settlement.