Knowledge

What the Federal Government’s First Home Loan Deposit Scheme means for you

The First Home Loan Deposit Scheme allows some first home buyers to purchase a first home with a deposit as little as 5% and avoid paying Lenders Mortgage Insurance. Zac Herps examines the benefits and possible problems.

To guarantee or not to guarantee. Part 1 of 2

Most people will have been asked to give a guarantee or indemnity at some stage, but may not always understand the full ramifications of doing so. Ben Ryan looks at guarantees and indemnities.

How good planning can minimise Will disputes

For many reasons, there has been a rise in the number of Will disputes and challenges within families. Robert Lamb discusses how good planning and experienced advice can help ensure your Will, and your interests, are protected.

ACCC sues Google over misleading consumers – what does this mean?

Google is being sued by the ACCC over allegedly misleading consumers about collection and use of location data. Ben Ryan reviews the allegations and what it means for consumers.

The lessons from Woolworths Group: the value of checking your employment agreements

A recent review found that Woolworths Group had underpaid around 5,700 salaried store team members. Robert Lamb considers this recent development.

The mindful lawyer: how to turn habits into opportunities

We recently invited Paul Pitsaras, Managing Director of The Open Mind Institute, to speak with the team about maintaining positive mental health. His talk was part of a week-long mental well-being exercise for the team. Read for his key takeaways.

What are your options when it comes to chasing a client for an unpaid invoice?

You have been chasing a client for weeks and they just won’t pay your invoice. So, why not send a Statutory Demand? Ben Ryan looks at the risks of issuing Statutory Demands and other recovery options available.

How the sale of a bull for $18,000 cost a vendor more than $200,000

Michael Morris looks at a District Court of NSW decision which provides a timely reminder that a vendor can be liable for loss suffered by a purchaser far in excess of the contract price.

Does an employee’s request for flexibility have to be approved?

New changes mean employees can request flexible working arrangements. However, a recent case demonstrates there are limits to how far an employer needs to go to accommodate a request. Caitlyn Wessels & Robert Lamb review.

New changes to First Home Super Saver Scheme make home ownership more accessible for young Australians

Recent changes to the First Home Super Saver (FHSS) Scheme create a golden opportunity for forward-thinking individuals looking to buy their first home. Zac Herps looks at the key changes.

Do you trust that your family trust was set up properly? The benefits of a corporate trustee to minimise risk

Craig Hong looks at the benefits of setting up a trust with a corporate trustee and eliminating the need for an appointer. He weighs up the advantages and disadvantages with particular focus on estate planning purposes.

What does the new Medicare Shared Debt Recovery Scheme mean for medical professionals?

The Medicare Debt Recovery Scheme means doctors and medical practices now face new levels of liability for any over-payment of Medicare benefits. Craig Hong looks at how medical professionals can protect themselves.

Why you need to protect your intellectual property?

Your intellectual property is what sets you apart from your competitors. So, is your intellectual property protected? Ben Ryan looks at what a trade mark is and why it should be a key aspect of your business.

The uber difference between a contractor and an employee

A recent investigation into an unfair dismissal claim against Uber Australia raises further questions about the difference between a contractor and an employee. Robert Lamb looks at why it pays to check all agreements.

Procedural fairness or systemic apprehension? Why it’s important to follow key procedures when terminating employment contracts

The increasing number of unfair dismissal claims with Australia’s Fair Work Commission is making some employers nervous. Robert Lamb looks what employers need to know and the key learnings from a recent case with Virgin Australia.