The shareholders of CRT Ltd are concerned that despite the company being profitable, they have not been paid dividends for some time. The company's assets exceed its liabilities. The directors have advised shareholders that they are building retained earnings to fund a business expansion.

Advise the shareholders of CRT Ltd as to what requirements a company must meet under the Corporations Act 2001 (Cth), before they can pay a dividend. Further, advise the shareholders as to whether they can force the directors to pay a dividend. Your advice should refer to sections of the Corporations Act 2001 (Cth) and related case law.