Federal Court Imposes $5.8 Million Penalty for Serious Privacy Act Breaches Following Cyberattack
Australian Information Commissioner v Australian Clinical Labs Limited (No 2) [2025] FCA 1224 The Federal Court of Australia has handed down a significant penalty of $5,800,000 after finding that a healthcare provider committed multiple serious breaches of the Privacy Act 1988 (Cth) (Privacy Act) arising from a major cyberattack in early 2022. The decision underscores […]
ACNC Releases Updated Guidance on Public Benevolent Institutions
The Australian Charities and Not-for-profits Commission (ACNC) has released a new version of its Commissioner’s Interpretation Statement on Public Benevolent Institutions (PBIs), marking the most significant update to the guidance since 2016. Published on 29 September 2025, the revised Statement outlines how the ACNC currently interprets the law governing PBI registration, an area of charity […]
County Court Releases New Commercial Law Division Practice Note PNCO 1-2025
The County Court’s Commercial Law Division has introduced significant procedural reforms through Practice Note PNCO 1-2025, published on 4 August and in force from 1 September 2025. These changes reshape how commercial matters are prepared, managed and resolved, with a clear focus on efficiency, proportionality and early dispute resolution. Below is a short overview of […]
When Defect Claims Meet Legal Reality: Lessons from Owners Corp v Devakon
Owners Corporation PS801173C v Devakon Pty Ltd [2025] VCAT 830 What happens when apartment owners claim nearly $1 million in building defects, only for the Tribunal to decide that most of those issues either weren’t defects at all, or simply didn’t warrant costly repairs? This Victorian case shows that in building disputes, it’s not about […]
A Turning Point for Building Liability: High Court Clarifies Duties Under the DBP Act (NSW)
Pafburn Pty Limited v The Owners – Strata Plan No 84674 [2024] HCA 49 When construction defects emerge in major residential buildings, responsibility often becomes a tangled web of contractors, subcontractors, developers and consultants. In Pafburn Pty Ltd v Owners – Strata Plan No 84674, the High Court of Australia was asked to decide a […]
Demystifying Conveyancing: A Clear Path to Property Ownership
Buying or selling a home is one of the most significant financial steps most people take in their lifetime. Behind every successful property transaction is a legal process called conveyancing – the mechanism that ensures ownership is transferred correctly, securely and with full legal protection for both buyer and seller. Whether you are purchasing your […]
Navigating Family Law with Care and Confidence
Family law is one of the most personal and emotionally significant areas of the legal system. It touches on our closest relationships, our children, our financial security, and our future. Whether you are experiencing a relationship breakdown, navigating co-parenting arrangements, or planning ahead with financial agreements, having the right guidance is essential. As part of […]
Understanding Visa Cancellations and Appealing ART Decisions
Visa cancellation is one of the most serious actions the Australian Government can take against a non-citizen. It can affect long-term residents, temporary visa holders, or even people who have lived in Australia for most of their lives. A cancellation not only removes a person’s lawful right to remain in the country, it can also […]
When Specific Performance Fails: Grech v Biltar
Grech v Biltar [2025] VSC 636 Overview In Grech v Biltar Pty Ltd [2025] VSC 636, the Victorian Supreme Court was asked to determine whether a clause in a settlement deed – requiring the builder to carry out rectification works of defects – was enough on its own to justify an order for specific performance. […]
What Happens If You Pass Away Without A Will?
Intestacy and Family Provision under Victorian Law Most people assume their assets will automatically go to their partner or children. But under Victorian law, that’s not always the case, and the outcome can be very different from what you would have wanted. Dying without a will (called intestacy) can lead to unexpected consequences: a partner […]