Neighbourhood Disputes: What homeowners can take on board from the Boyle Case

Neighbourhood disputes over trees and vegetation can be more complex than they seem, particularly when local council regulations come into play. The recent Queensland Civil and Administrative Tribunal (QCAT) case of Weerasena v Boyle and Anor [2024] QCAT 327 highlights how competing interests—such as a homeowner’s right to manage overhanging trees versus council-imposed Vegetation Protection Orders—can complicate legal proceedings

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Pet Custody: Who Keeps the Dog in the Divorce?

The Family Law Act 1975 does not permit couples to share custody of a pet after separation. As there is no provision for shared custody under the law, it can only be achieved by informal agreement.  Some separated couples arrange this between themselves, but if that is not possible, then the question becomes: who keeps the dog in the divorce?

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Agents - Protect Your Sales Commission!

In the recent Queensland case of Trappando Pty Ltd v Sunshine Group Australia Pty Ltd (2023) the Court of Appeal provided real estate agents with some valuable advice as to the importance of having an adequately prepared Form 6. In the case the client terminated the contract and forfeited the deposit and the agent sought to recover their commission.

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Modern Award review

For those who are not aware of what a Modern Award is - A Modern Award is a document which sets out the minimum terms and conditions of employment on top of the National Employment Standards (“NES”).

Modern Awards provide entitlements such as pay, hours of work, rosters, breaks, allowances, penalty rates and overtime.  There are more than 100 industry or occupation awards that cover most people who work in Australia.

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