David and Goliath court victory over Bunnings by hardware store owner | The Business | ABC NEWS

A Queensland hardware store owner has had a major court victory over retail giant Bunnings, in one of the first high profile uses of new 'no adverse costs laws'. The federal court ruled David Woodman won't be liable for Bunnings' legal fees if he loses his case against the retailer, which is trying to open up next door to his Mitre 10 business. Business reporter Emilia Terzon has been following the story and joined The Business to explain. She says David Woodman first learned in 2018 Bunnings was planning to open right next door to his Mitre10 franchise. His business, based in Jimboomba, would be put out of business if Bunnings opens the store. His lawyers believe it's the first known use of new NACO laws to avoid small players being liable for legal fees if they take on corporate giants. Bunnings says they note the decision on costs and will respond through appropriate legal processes, saying it's about bringing more choice and jobs to Jimboomba. Mitre10's owners Metcash says the court decision helps even the playing the field for small business.
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