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Non Refundable Retainer Agreement for Australia

Non Refundable Retainer Agreement Template for Australia

A Non-Refundable Retainer Agreement is a legally binding contract used in Australian jurisdiction that establishes an arrangement where a client pays an upfront fee to secure the services of a professional or firm. The agreement specifically stipulates that the retainer payment is non-refundable, ensuring the service provider's commitment and availability. This document complies with Australian contract law and consumer protection regulations, clearly outlining the scope of services, payment terms, and the non-refundable nature of the arrangement. It provides protection for both parties by clearly defining expectations, service levels, and the terms under which the services will be provided.

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What is a Non Refundable Retainer Agreement?

The Non-Refundable Retainer Agreement is essential in professional service relationships where securing priority access or guaranteed availability is crucial. This document, designed for use in Australian jurisdictions, establishes a legally binding arrangement where clients make an upfront payment to retain professional services, with the explicit understanding that this payment is non-refundable. It's commonly used by law firms, consultants, creative professionals, and other service providers who need to reserve time and resources for specific clients. The agreement addresses key aspects such as service scope, payment terms, obligations of both parties, and the specific conditions under which services will be provided. It ensures compliance with Australian consumer law, contract law, and relevant professional regulations while protecting both the service provider's commitment of resources and the client's interest in securing priority service.

What sections should be included in a Non Refundable Retainer Agreement?

1. Parties: Identifies and defines the service provider and the client, including full legal names, addresses, and any relevant business/company details

2. Background: Outlines the context of the agreement, including the client's desire to retain the service provider's services and the provider's willingness to provide them

3. Definitions: Defines key terms used throughout the agreement, including 'Retainer Fee', 'Services', 'Term', and other relevant terminology

4. Services: Detailed description of the services to be provided under the retainer arrangement

5. Retainer Fee and Payment Terms: Specifies the non-refundable retainer amount, payment schedule, and explicit acknowledgment of the non-refundable nature

6. Term and Termination: Defines the duration of the agreement and circumstances under which it may be terminated

7. Non-Refundable Nature: Explicit clause detailing the non-refundable nature of the retainer and the reasoning behind it

8. Service Provider's Obligations: Details the obligations and commitments of the service provider under the retainer

9. Client's Obligations: Outlines the responsibilities and commitments of the client

10. Intellectual Property: Addresses ownership and rights to any intellectual property created during the service provision

11. Confidentiality: Provisions regarding the handling of confidential information shared between parties

12. General Provisions: Standard legal provisions including governing law, notices, entire agreement, and amendment procedures

What sections are optional to include in a Non Refundable Retainer Agreement?

1. Service Level Agreement: Include when specific performance metrics or service levels need to be guaranteed

2. Additional Services: Include when there's a need to specify services available beyond the basic retainer scope and associated fees

3. Conflict Resolution: Include when parties want to specify particular dispute resolution procedures

4. Insurance Requirements: Include when specific insurance coverage needs to be maintained by either party

5. Non-Solicitation: Include when there's a need to prevent either party from soliciting employees or clients

6. Force Majeure: Include when parties want to address circumstances beyond their control that might affect service delivery

7. Assignment Rights: Include when transfer of rights under the agreement needs to be specifically addressed

8. Minimum Commitment: Include when there's a minimum time commitment or minimum service usage requirement

What schedules should be included in a Non Refundable Retainer Agreement?

1. Schedule A - Scope of Services: Detailed breakdown of services covered under the retainer

2. Schedule B - Fee Schedule: Detailed breakdown of the retainer fee structure and any additional charges

3. Schedule C - Service Level Metrics: Specific performance metrics and service standards if applicable

4. Schedule D - Key Personnel: List of key personnel assigned to provide the services

5. Appendix 1 - Communication Protocol: Procedures for routine communications and escalation paths

6. Appendix 2 - Required Documentation: List of documents or reports to be maintained or provided during the service

Authors

Alex Denne

Head of Growth (Open Source Law) @ Ƶ | 3 x UCL-Certified in Contract Law & Drafting | 4+ Years Managing 1M+ Legal Documents | Serial Founder & Legal AI Author

Jurisdiction

Australia

Publisher

Ƶ

Document Type

Fee Agreement

Cost

Free to use
Relevant legal definitions





























Clauses






























Relevant Industries

Legal Services

Management Consulting

Financial Advisory

Professional Services

Creative Services

Information Technology

Business Consulting

Marketing and Public Relations

Executive Coaching

Architecture and Design

Engineering Services

Healthcare Services

Entertainment Industry

Real Estate Services

Relevant Teams

Legal

Compliance

Business Development

Operations

Finance

Risk Management

Commercial

Professional Services

Client Relations

Contracts Administration

Executive Leadership

Project Management

Relevant Roles

Chief Executive Officer

Managing Director

Legal Counsel

General Counsel

Contract Manager

Business Development Manager

Professional Service Provider

Consultant

Attorney

Financial Advisor

Creative Director

Project Manager

Account Executive

Operations Manager

Partnership Director

Senior Associate

Principal Consultant

Managing Partner

Chief Financial Officer

Risk Manager

Industries








Teams

Employer, Employee, Start Date, Job Title, Department, Location, Probationary Period, Notice Period, Salary, Overtime, Vacation Pay, Statutory Holidays, Benefits, Bonus, Expenses, Working Hours, Rest Breaks,  Leaves of Absence, Confidentiality, Intellectual Property, Non-Solicitation, Non-Competition, Code of Conduct, Termination,  Severance Pay, Governing Law, Entire Agreemen

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