In an effort to ensure that the benefits applicable to both employees or independent contractors under the Worker’s Compensation and Rehabilitation Act 2003 are clear and easy to understand, from 1 July 2013, the present definition of ‘worker’ under the Worker’s Compensation and Rehabilitation Act 2003 will be amended to define a ‘worker’ as ‘a...
An interesting appeal case which recently came before the High Court in relation to whether the restriction on the purchase and possession of alcohol in Northern Queensland communities was in breach of racial discrimination laws, was dismissed last week. The appellant, an indigenous Queensland resident, Joan Maloney, argued that the present laws which restrict residents...
Recently our local Gold Coast Lawyers have noticed a significant increase in the rise of Fair Work disputes and specifically, general protection claims. Likely an effect of the unstable economy a general protection claim can be a costly claim against an employer commonly brought following dismissal of an employee. Under the Fair Work Act 2009...
Often after separation when parties are determining their property pool and deciding how the pool may be distributed between the parties, they do not realise that their superannuation interests are classed as ‘property’, and form a part of the parties’ property pool which can be available for distribution. In this article we will provide you...
Probate is an official document obtained from the Supreme Court as recognition that the Will of a deceased person is legally valid. Probate need not be obtained in all estate matters, however, there are particular circumstances where a grant of probate may be required, such as when the executor is required to distribute proceeds of...
As Australian property prices remain some of the most unaffordable in the world, sellers are finding alternate ways to entice buyers into contracts. Recently, Rent-to-Buy has been one of these methods. Generally attractive to buyers without a solid credit or savings history, a lease is entered into with an option to purchase after X...
At Affinity Lawyers, we know that when a separation occurs it can be a stressful, emotional time for parties and often during this time, parties are not aware, or fail to consider important financial or personal matters which require consideration and urgent action to protect their interests. While we strongly recommend obtaining legal advice...
1. Have you been dismissed from employment? If you have been dismissed you may have a claim against your employer, if your employer has breached your contract of employment or broken the law in dismissing you. If your employer has broken the law in dismissing you, you may be able to make a claim under...
