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Historically, our pets have been treated as personal property in the family courts. Even though most of us would regard our pets as being akin to our children, the court has not yet made laws which are consistent with the realities of this emotional bond. Some recent changes in the Family Law Amendment Act 2024 (Cth) however, have now recognised “companion animals” as their own [...]
Those who live in, rent out, invest in, manage, or build strata properties in New South Wales should prepare for major changes in 2025. The NSW Government has launched an extensive reform package that represents the largest overhaul of state strata laws in decades through a bold multi-stage process. These reforms advance recommendations from the 2021 statutory review and address public demands to fix insurance kickbacks and [...]
December 2024 marked a new chapter in NSW policing. For the first time, officers can stop and scan people in designated areas with slim electronic “wands.” These handheld metal detectors were legislated under the Law Enforcement (Powers and Responsibilities) and Other Legislation Amendment (Knife Crime) Bill 2024, a measure to tackle rising knife crime. The concept is not new. Queensland introduced “Jack’s Law” in 2022, [...]
As the modern Australian family evolves, so too does the legal battlefield over inheritance. Blended families, where partners bring children from previous relationships, are increasingly common, and so are the inheritance disputes they can sometimes generate. When love and legacy collide, family provision claims under the Succession Act 2006 (NSW) often turn the courtroom into a stage for airing personal grievances, addressing financial need, and [...]
The Federal and NSW Governments enacted tough new laws as a reaction to the increasing antisemitic attacks in early 2025. This document explains their operation and includes descriptions of both their subject matter and their limitations. Why Now? The quick legislative response followed Nazi symbol graffiti on synagogues and homes in Sydney during a period of rising hate-related incidents. The NSW Premier, Chris Minns, claimed [...]
In March 2025, the NSW government introduced the Protection of the Environment Legislation Amendment (FOGO Recycling) Act 2025 (FOGO Act), amending the Protection of the Environment Operations Act 1997 (NSW). The FOGO Act mandates the collection of food organics and garden organics (FOGO) waste. The FOGO waste services are aimed at reducing food waste, reducing landfill volumes, recovering nutrients for reuse within a circular economy, [...]
The recent High Court of Australia decision in Elisha v Vision Australia Limited [2024] HCA 50 has created a compelling precedent in employment law, awarding for the first time damages in favour of an employee for psychiatric injury caused by wrongful termination arising from unfair disciplinary processes. This ruling broadens employer responsibilities, developing a stronger emphasis on procedural fairness and adherence to established workplace policies. [...]
Tree disputes between neighbours are quite common and can often be a source of conflict and tension. Before taking any steps to resolve an outcome regarding the removal or pruning of a tree, it is important that you have a general understanding of the legal framework which applies and the possible avenues available to achieve a solution. In most areas of NSW, local council approval [...]
Going through a relationship breakdown is never easy. It can create waves of emotion, leaving you unsure of what to do next. At a time like this, making decisions about your future, especially legal ones, can feel daunting. Getting help and guidance through the divorce process makes it more manageable. The only stipulation for divorce in NSW is that a couple must already be separated [...]
Much has been said about the complexities associated with attribution of liability for defective building works between various parties including builders, developers and subcontractors. In recent years, and particularly since the introduction of the Design and Building Practitioners Act 2020 (NSW) (DBP Act), it has become more difficult for developers and builders to limit their own liability for defective works. This can even extend, in [...]
