For many families, their home is the single biggest investment of their lives. As Consumer Affairs Minister Nick Staikos noted in the second reading speech introducing the reforms, a home is “the foundation of their future,” which makes it essential that Victoria’s laws around domestic building contracts are “clear, effective and modernised” to protect […]
Major Shake-Up for Domestic Building Contracts in Victoria Read More »
Buying or selling property is one of the most significant financial decisions we make. One of the most important steps in that process is conveyancing. In Australia, both conveyancers and solicitors can handle conveyancing work. However, while they perform similar tasks, there are differences between the two that are important to understand before deciding
Conveyancer or Solicitor? Understanding the Differences in Conveyancing Matters Read More »
Starting a business in Australia can feel like stepping into a world of acronyms – GST, BAS, ACN, TFN. But one of the most important of them all is the ABN, or Australian Business Number. Behind those 11 digits lies the foundation of how your business is identified, taxed, and recognised by both the
What is an ABN and Do You Need One? Read More »
Overview The Anti-Money Laundering and Counter-Terrorism Financing Amendment Act 2024 (Cth) was passed by Parliament in November 2024. It updates the existing AML/CTF Act 2006 to strengthen Australia’s ability to prevent and respond to money laundering and terrorism financing, and to align with international standards set by the Financial Action Task Force (FATF).
What should you expect from your lawyer under the new AML laws? Read More »
Speaking up should be simple. In a just system, exposing misconduct or abuse of power ought to be encouraged – not punished. Yet for many whistleblowers, doing the right thing can quickly become a stressful, risky, and costly ordeal. What is whistleblowing? Whistleblowing refers to a person who reports an individual or organisation
Understanding Whistleblowing in Australia’s Legal Landscape Read More »
In Victoria, the general rule is that a litigation guardian must act through a separate solicitor, to avoid any conflict of interest. However, in limited cases, such as where it’s cost-effective or no one else is available, the court may allow the same person to act as both solicitor and litigation guardian, provided there’s
For many small charities in Australia, compliance with regulatory obligations can feel like an overwhelming burden. Between chasing funding, managing volunteers, and delivering community programs, administration and record-keeping can easily slip down the priority list. But failing to comply with ACNC requirements can lead to serious consequences, including loss of registration, reputational damage, and
Don’t Get Caught Out: Common ACNC Compliance Mistakes (and How to Avoid Them) Read More »
Over the past year, a series of Magistrates’ Court decisions has upended common practice in owners corporation levy recovery. These rulings confirm that such disputes must now be brought exclusively in VCAT, reshaping the jurisdictional landscape in Victoria. Background Over the past twelve months, a sequence of significant decisions[1] rendered by the Magistrates’
Owners Corporation Disputes in Victoria: A Reconfigured Jurisdiction Read More »
Building a home is meant to be one of the most rewarding experiences of your life. It’s where savings, ideas, and emotions come together to create something meaningful – a place to live, grow, and feel safe. But sometimes, the process doesn’t go to plan. Defective work, delays, or even a builder who walks
When Construction Goes Wrong, Insurance Can Step In Read More »
When you sign a domestic building contract, you might assume that everything you’re agreeing to is written on the page. But what if we told you that, under Victorian law, you’re also agreeing to a series of promises outlined in legislation? These promises are known as implied warranties – non-negotiable obligations that apply by law
The Hidden Promises in Your Building Contract Read More »