When a business in Victoria faces financial distress, voluntary administration and liquidation are two common processes that come readily to mind. While both processes are designed to address financial difficulties, they differ significantly in their objectives, procedures, and outcomes. This article explores the differences between voluntary administration and liquidation, shedding light on their distinct purposes and the implications they hold for your businesses.

Voluntary Administration:

Voluntary administration is an insolvency process designed to give struggling companies a chance to rehabilitate and restructure their operations. It allows a financially distressed business to continue trading while an independent administrator takes control of its affairs. The primary goal of voluntary administration is to maximize the chances of the company’s survival and, ultimately, its return to solvency. It provides a breathing space by imposing a moratorium on legal actions against the company, allowing time for a comprehensive assessment of the business and potential restructuring options.

 

Key features of voluntary administration in Victoria include:

  • Independent administrator: An external administrator, appointed by the company’s directors or secured creditors, assumes control over the company’s operations, investigating its financial position, and proposing a strategy for its future.
  • Moratorium: Once voluntary administration commences, creditors are prevented from taking legal action against the company, giving it temporary protection from debt enforcement.
  • Deed of Company Arrangement (DOCA): If a viable plan emerges during voluntary administration, a DOCA may be proposed to the company’s creditors. If approved, it binds all parties to its terms, potentially enabling the company to continue trading while meeting its obligations.

 

Liquidation

Liquidation, also known as winding up, is a process that involves the closure and dissolution of a company. Unlike voluntary administration, which aims to rescue a business, liquidation is typically pursued when there is no reasonable prospect of the company returning to solvency. It involves the realisation of the company’s assets, payment of its outstanding debts, and the final distribution of remaining funds to shareholders.

 

Key features of liquidation in Victoria include:

  • Appointment of a liquidator: A liquidator, who is often a registered insolvency practitioner, takes control of the company’s assets and oversees the winding-up process, acting in the best interests of the creditors.
  • Realisation of assets: The liquidator identifies, collects, and sells the company’s assets to generate funds for repayment to creditors. The proceeds are distributed according to the priority of claims specified under the law.
  • Dissolution: Once all assets are realised, debts are paid, the company is formally dissolved, ceasing to exist as a legal entity.

 

In Victoria, understanding the differences between voluntary administration and liquidation is crucial for businesses facing financial difficulties. Voluntary administration offers an opportunity for rehabilitation and restructuring, aiming to save the company and protect the interests of creditors. On the other hand, liquidation represents the winding-up of a company when no viable path to solvency exists. Both processes serve distinct purposes and have unique implications for businesses, individual director, creditors, and stakeholders.

Seeking professional advice from insolvency practitioners or legal experts is vital to navigate these complex proceedings effectively and make informed decisions about the future of a troubled business.

 

Disclaimer: This publication contains comments of a general and introductory nature only and is provided as an information service. It is not intended to be relied upon as, nor is it a substitute for specific professional legal advice. You should always speak to us and obtain legal advice before taking any action relating to matters raised in this publication.