Allstate Life Insurance Co and Others v Australia and New Zealand Banking Group and Others

The tort of inducing breach of contract requires intention or knowledge that the conduct induced will constitute a breach of contract; this is the actual or subjective state of mind of the alleged tortfeasor. 'Reckless indifference', 'wilful blindness', and 'indifference' as to whether a breach will result are not elements of the tort but may constitute evidence from which intention or knowledge can be inferred. Where the alleged tortfeasor knows of the particular contractual provision breached, the requirement of intention applies with full force. The requirement of 'sufficient knowledge of the contract' is not a separate element but an aspect of the requirement of intention to interfere with contractual rights.