Commercial law is also referred to as corporate law or business law.

In essence, it refers to the practice of law as it relates to commerce, trade and sales as well as the entities who participate in these activities. The purpose of a commercial lawyer is to assist their client to navigate the legal risks and issues affecting their business.

The starting point for most aspects of commercial law is the Corporations Act 2001, which sets in place the mechanisms for the formation of companies and their internal and external operation. Commercial law will also draw on other areas of law including contracts, leasing, taxation and industrial relations.