A non compete clause is a clause in a contract. These clauses aim to prevent a person from carrying out competing activities against another business.
A contract may refer to these clauses as non-compete clauses, restraint clauses or restraint of trade clauses.
Read on to hear from an Australian employment lawyer on what a non compete clause is.
What legal definition applies to a non-compete clause?
There is a difference between an enforceable non-compete and one that is not legally enforceable. A business should only enforce a non-compete when it is:
- reasonable, and
- necessary to protect a business’s legitimate interests
An unenforceable restraint is:
- unreasonable
- applicable for a period of time that is too long
- one that applies to too large a geographical area
- aimed at limiting competition and not protecting the business
What is a legitimate business interest?
A legitimate business interest usually involves the need to protect confidential information, customer relationships, and trade secrets.
Here are some examples of business interests that could be protected by the clause:
- sensitive business information that could be used by a competitor to harm the original employer
- established client relationships that are integral to the business’s success
- the stability of a company’s workforce
- a business’s position in the market, particularly when an employee has a significant influence over key customers
Which clause is a restraint clause?
Non-compete clauses may be identified in a contract by looking out for:
- a heading with words relating to restricting competing activities
- obligations that limit a person’s right to work for competitors or start their own business
- ‘post-employment’ obligations that apply after the employment relationship ends
What contracts usually include restraint clauses?
Restraint clauses usually appear in the following types of contracts:
- employment agreements
- franchise agreements
- business purchase contracts
- supply and manufacturing contracts
- teaming agreements for tenders