AU Federal Court Slams Counsel with $1000 Costs for Failed Video Appearance

• The Australian Federal Court awarded $1,000 in lump sum costs against the respondent for their counsel's failed video appearance.
• The court deemed it necessary to relist and conduct a first case management hearing due to the respondent's counsel's insufficient appearance.
• The decision highlights the importance of ensuring reliable internet connections for remote court appearances in Australian Federal Court.

Lawyers and compliance officers should be aware of the potential consequences of counsel's failed video appearances in Australian Federal Court.

A recent decision by the Australian Federal Court highlights the importance of reliable internet connections for remote court appearances. In Sunche Pty Ltd v Roll'd Australia Pty Ltd [2026] FCA 977, the respondent's counsel failed to maintain a continuous video or audio link throughout a hearing, leading to a significant cost award against them. The court awarded the applicant lump sum costs of $1,000, citing the inevitable wasted preparation and attendance at the hearing as justification for this amount.

The Federal Court's decision was guided by the National Court Framework and Case Management Practice Note (CPN-1). The court listed the first case management hearing on 29 May 2026, but the respondent's counsel failed to establish a reliable video or audio link. This led to a delay in calling the case management hearing and ultimately resulted in the court issuing consent orders. However, the court deemed it necessary to relist and conduct a first case management hearing to ensure proper allocation of judicial and administrative resources.

Lawyers and compliance officers should be aware of the potential consequences of counsel's failed video appearances in Australian Federal Court. The decision highlights the importance of ensuring a reliable internet connection for remote court appearances. Failure to do so can result in significant costs being awarded against counsel, as seen in this case where the respondent was ordered to pay $1,000 in lump sum costs. This serves as a reminder to ensure that counsel is equipped with the necessary technology and expertise to participate effectively in remote hearings.

Lawyers and compliance officers should be aware of the potential consequences of counsel's failed video appearances in Australian Federal Court, including the risk of significant costs being awarded against them. This decision highlights the importance of ensuring a reliable internet connection for remote court appearances.

Source: Original reporting via [Source Title]