Applying for the FIRB Commercial Scale Exception: What a Complex Strata Acquisition Taught Us
Since 1 April 2025, foreign persons have been generally banned from purchasing established dwellings in Australia, with narrow exceptions. One of the less-discussed pathways is…
Australia FIRB: Can Foreign Buyers Purchase Established Dwellings Under the Commercial Scale Exception?
Since 1 April 2025, foreign persons have been generally banned from purchasing established dwellings in Australia, under the Australia FIRB rules. The ban applies until…
How to Tell if a Law Firm or Lawyer is Genuine Before You Pay Any Money
In recent months, we have met with several clients who first came to us after an experience with another “law firm” had already gone wrong….
2026–27 Federal Budget: What the CGT Changes Mean for Family Trusts, and Why This is Legal Work as Much as Tax Work
Our first article examined the new CGT framework, including the end of the 50% discount, indexation, the 30% minimum tax and the June backdown. This…
2026–27 Federal Budget: The End of the 50% CGT Discount: What It Means for You
On Budget night, 12 May 2026, the Government announced what the Business Council of Australia called the most consequential tax changes in a quarter of…
Understanding Section 57 Natural Justice and PIC 4020 in Australian Visa Applications
Receiving a letter from the Department of Home Affairs titled “Invitation to Comment on Adverse Information” can be one of the most stressful moments in…
Can Casual Full-Time Employment Count Towards the Subclass 186 Direct Entry Work Experience Requirement?
Meeting the work experience requirement is essential for applicants seeking permanent residency through the Subclass 186 Direct Entry (DE) stream. But what if your work…
International Notarisation vs Apostille: What They Are and Why the Process Matters
Introduction When arranging documents for use outside Australia, it’s common to come across terms like international notarisation, Apostille certification, authentication, and legalisation. Although these are…
Australia’s 12-Month Separation Before Divorce: What You Need to Know
Australia adopts a no-fault divorce system. This means the Court does not investigate who was unfaithful, who caused the breakdown of the relationship, or who…
Understanding Bail Applications in Canberra: Why Early Legal Advice Matters
Being arrested in Canberra can have serious and immediate consequences. Whether you’re granted bail often determines not only your personal freedom, but also impacts your…