Sharing Your Ideas - safely.

Author: Youth 2 Youth.

Unfortunately you can't trust anyone, especially when it is your business ideas at stake. So, take the time to protect your ideas by having a Confidentiality Agreement drawn up.

This is a legal document that is signed by yourself and the person you are going to disclose the information to. It states that any material ( written, verbal, electronic etc ) that you disclose in regards to a certain issue, is your property. You both agree to certain terms and conditions, with things like both parties agreeing not to disclose the information to anyone else.

So, basically it is saying that you are going to tell them about your idea and that they agree not to rip that idea off and then say it was there's. So, you can see how it covers you, your great business idea and all of your hard work.

Where do you get one ? There are some websites below, but is best to see a lawyer ( or visit legalaid ) and have one drawn up that is specific to your circumstance. Most lawyers have a standard template that they then just add your details to, it is relatively easy and quick. Or contact your local BEC ( Business Enterprise Centre in NSW - or similar in other States ) and they can put you in contact with a local lawyer.

1) http://www.australiatrade.com.au/Contracts/Confidentiality/

2) http://www.ilrg.com/forms/confidagree.html

Australian Legal Information Institute
http://www.austlii.edu.au/

Legal Aid
www.legalaid.nsw.gov.au

Law Stuff
www.lawstuff.org.au

'Copyright 2003 Youth 2 Youth'

Disclaimer: This article is for your information, but it may not apply to or be suitable for your situation, so seek professional advice. Youth 2 Youth or Y-Biz Hothouse cannot be held liable for anything resulting from how you use the information provided in this article.