The death of a loved one can leave families wondering about the future. But at an already difficult time, they’re faced with immediate financial pressures. Funeral expenses need payment, household bills continue arriving, and mortgage or rent payments don’t pause. To ease the burden, families can make a death benefit claim. In this article, we … Read more
For many injured Australians, a TPD claim can provide considerable support. Unfortunately, not all claims are approved. We understand how disappointing having a rejected TPD claim can be after you’ve already been through physical, emotional, and financial challenges. But you are not alone. According to a 2023 report from the Australian Prudential Regulation Authority (APRA), … Read more
Fatigue-related driving accidents represent one of Australia’s most serious road safety challenges. According to recent research, approximately 20% of road accidents in Australia are due to fatigue-related crashes. This represents almost 1200 deaths in 2022, according to the International Transport Forum. Understanding the causes, effects, and compensation options for these accidents is crucial for both … Read more
Public events such as festivals, concerts, and community gatherings should be times of celebration and enjoyment, but when safety measures fail, the resulting injuries can shatter lives. From crowd crushes at festivals to collapsing stages or slippery surfaces at community fairs, these incidents highlight the importance of event safety. Organisers have a legal obligation to … Read more
Many Australians are tempted by the convenience and apparent cost savings of online Wills and DIY Will kits. While these options may seem attractive, particularly during financially challenging times, it’s crucial to understand both their limitations and potential risks. This comprehensive guide explores the realities of DIY estate planning and why professional legal advice might … Read more
When an individual dies, their Will usually undergoes a legal procedure known as probate. However, while probate typically involves the Supreme Court validating a Will and authorising estate administration, serious concerns about the validity of a Will or its creation may require a probate caveat. Unlike its property law counterpart dealing with land title restrictions, … Read more
Teachers play a vital role in shaping our society, yet they face increasing risks of workplace injuries and illness. In Queensland, the education and training sector saw the most significant rise in workers’ compensation claims, with a notable increase of 16.3% in 2022-2023 v in 2021-2022 (Worksafe, 2023). Many of these claims are linked to … Read more
In Australia, burn injuries are more common than many realise, with 2,423 burn patients admitted in 2022-2023 (ANZBA). Whether caused by a workplace accident, a road crash, or an incident in a public space, burns can lead to significant physical, emotional, and financial hardship. Navigating the compensation process after a burn injury can be overwhelming, … Read more
As a business owner, you’ve invested significant time, resources, and energy into building your enterprise. But what happens if you become incapacitated or pass away? Who will assume control of your business? How can you protect your family’s financial future and ensure your business legacy endures? These critical questions are at the heart of succession … Read more
Blocked council drains flooding a basement, uneven footpaths causing falls, or unkempt trees damaging cars can lead to serious personal and financial harm. Such accidents may stem from council negligence, where local authorities fail to maintain public safety. Despite limited resources, councils must meet reasonable standards in managing public infrastructure. Understanding council negligence is key … Read more
Car park accidents are more prevalent than many might assume. The tight spaces, reversing vehicles, pedestrians, and often confusing signage can easily lead to collisions and injuries. In Queensland, determining who is at fault in these accidents can be intricate, involving a variety of laws and considerations. However, if you’ve been injured, you may be … Read more
In estate planning, handwritten Wills, also known as holographic Wills, present unique challenges when it comes to contestation. Whilst these documents may seem straightforward, they often lead to complex legal disputes. This article considers the intricacies of contesting handwritten Wills, exploring the grounds for contestation, the legal process involved, and the potential outcomes. If you … Read more
In Australian estate planning, the interplay between superannuation and Wills is often misunderstood, leading to potential complications for beneficiaries. Many Australians mistakenly believe that their superannuation is automatically covered by their Will, but this is not the case. Understanding the distinct nature of these two elements is crucial for effective estate planning. The Unique Nature … Read more
In the current professional climate, workplace bullying is an ongoing issue that impacts as much as 1 in 10 employees, according to WorkSafe Queensland. This detrimental behaviour not only harms employees but also disrupts the overall health of organisations. In this article, we will consider the signs, consequences, and available legal avenues for addressing workplace … Read more
The rise of electric scooters, or e-scooters, in Queensland has transformed urban transportation, offering a convenient and eco-friendly alternative to traditional modes of travel. However, this surge in popularity has brought with it a host of challenges, particularly concerning road safety, accidents, and the complexities of compensation claims. This article explores the current state of … Read more
Food poisoning is a significant public health concern in Queensland and across Australia, with an estimated 4.1 million cases occurring annually, affecting one-sixth of the population. While most cases resolve without lasting effects, the Food Safety Information Council reports that food poisoning results in approximately 32,000 hospitalisations and 86 deaths each year, with an estimated … Read more
In the realm of estate disputes, few cases are as emotionally charged and legally complex as those involving allegations of undue influence and unconscionable conduct. The recent Court of Appeal decision in Bampton v Vourlides QCA 191 serves as a stark reminder of the intricate dance between familial relationships and financial decisions, especially when it … Read more
Introduction This case involves a dispute over the estate of Ms B, who died intestate (without a will) in a car accident on 30 June 2009. The applicant, who is the father of Ms B’s two children, sought a declaration that he was in a de facto relationship with Ms B at the time of … Read more
When you rent a home or apartment in Queensland, you expect a safe living environment. However, accidents can happen, and sometimes these accidents result from unsafe conditions in the property. If you’ve been injured due to such conditions, you may be considering making a public liability claim against your landlord. This article will guide you … Read more
In Queensland, the rise of the gig economy has fundamentally changed the landscape of work. Gig workers—individuals involved in short-term, flexible roles frequently facilitated through digital platforms—are increasingly becoming a crucial component of the workforce. Nonetheless, the nature of gig work introduces distinct challenges regarding workers’ compensation. This article explores the complexities of workers’ compensation … Read more
