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The Fair Work Act 2009 (FWA) sets out provisions for the minimum periods of notice required for terminating employment for employees under the national system. This article outlines who is covered by these provisions, who is excluded, and the specific notice periods mandated by the FWA. Coverage of Employees Section 117 of the Fair Work Act specifies that national system employees are entitled to minimum [...]
The recent popularity of electric bikes, especially among children, raises the question as to how its use is regulated on NSW roads. Powered with rechargeable batteries, e-bikes assist pedalling to help users ride faster than a traditional bicycle, while helping to manage hills easier and travel longer distances without feeling as tired. Bicycles must meet the requirements of a permitted e-bike to be legally used [...]
There are new laws which will apply to fixed term contracts entered into from 6 December 2023. The new law requires employers to give any employee engaged on a new fixed term contract a Fixed Term Contract Information Statement (FTCIS). The FTCIS will be available to download from the Fair Work website from 6 December 2023. There are also new limitations on when fixed term [...]
No matter what type of issue you engage a lawyer to assist you with, there are ways to minimize the legal fees that will inevitably arise. Set out below, in no particular order, are some of the best ways to reduce legal fees and get the most out of your relationship with your lawyer. Be as organized as possible. Even if you are not a [...]
Like any big change in life, moving into a retirement village takes some consideration. You should take the time to think about the lifestyle that you want and discuss your decision with family, friends and advisers. It is a good idea to work out a budget and visit a few villages to understand the contractual obligations and costs and seek professional legal and financial advice [...]
On 6 December 2022, the Fair Work Legislation Amendment (Secure Jobs, Better Pay) Act 2022 (the Act) was enacted. The Act amends and introduces a number of workplace laws, and introduces new objectives to promote job security and promote gender equality. Some of the key changes are as follows: Fixed Term Employment Contracts The Act seeks to limit the use of fixed-term contracts. Employers can [...]
Land tax is levied annually by each State or Territory government based upon the value of land for properties which reach the land tax threshold. This threshold changes each year and varies from State to State. Whilst land tax does not affect all properties and there are concessions and exemptions which apply, there are significant changes being implemented in Queensland which should be considered when [...]
In 2019, the NSW Government enacted changes to duty and land tax laws in NSW being the State Revenue Legislation Further Amendment Act 2020 (NSW) (the Act). The Act had significant implications for discretionary trusts. In particular, the changes resulted in an assumption being applied that the trustee of a discretionary trusts is a foreign person and therefore any real property that is owned by [...]
The High Court of Australia has recently handed down decisions that emphasises the importance of a written contract in the employment or contractor relationship. On 9 February 2022, the High Court handed down two landmark decisions, Construction, Forestry, Maritime, Mining and Energy union v Personnel Contracting Pty Ltd [2022] and ZG Operations Australia Pty Ltd v Jamsek [2022]. These decisions clarify the distinction between an [...]
Formal deeds and contracts have been executed by companies using electronic means rather than traditional handwritten signatures following the Covid-19 lockdown restrictions which have prevented in-person conferences. The ability to sign documents electronically was initially a temporary solution to lockdown restrictions and was due to expire on 1 April 2022. However, businesses have keenly embraced the newfound convenience and efficiency of signing documents electronically. To [...]
