Recent News

Sunset Clauses

Sunset Clauses – A Developer’s Dream And Buyer’s Nightmare

19.06.23

Sunset clauses in property contracts put first home buyers at risk in a competitive market. This article discusses the issues and upcoming law reform. A sunset clause allows termination without penalty if settlement doesn't happen by a specified date, leaving buyers with losses and no recourse against developers. The Queensland Government proposes limiting sunset clauses in off the plan contracts to protect buyers. Developers can only invoke the clause after the Sunset Date with buyer consent, a Supreme Court order, or other prescribed situations. These changes offer more protection in an uncertain market. Read More.

interim parenting orders

Can Interim Parenting Orders Be Changed?

12.05.23

The question of whether interim parenting orders can be altered due to a significant change in circumstances is a common inquiry received by our lawyers, but it hinges on the specifics of the situation. In a recent case, our Family Law Team was involved in such an issue that resulted in a variation of the Interim Orders. In this article, our Family Lawyers discuss how a change in circumstances can impact parenting Orders, the recent case they appeared in and the types of specific circumstances the court takes into account when considering whether to vary Orders. Read More.

TEMPORARY SKILLED MIGRATION INCOME

Breaking News: Australian Government Raises Temporary Skilled Migration Income Threshold To $70,000

10.05.23

The Australian government has raised the Temporary Skilled Migration Income Threshold (TSMIT) from $53,900 to $70,000 from 1 July 2023 in response to an independent review. This will affect businesses sponsoring overseas workers under skilled migration programs, as they must meet the minimum salary requirement to ensure fair pay for migrant workers. The government's decision reflects their commitment to fairness in the skilled migration system. Read More.

New Zealanders

Direct Pathway To Australian Citizenship For New Zealanders

10.05.23

The Australian Government's recent policy change presents a direct pathway to Australian citizenship for eligible New Zealand citizens residing in Australia. This marks a noteworthy shift in the migration policy between the two countries, with the aim of simplifying the process of obtaining Australian citizenship for New Zealanders living in Australia. The policy will take effect from 1st July 2023. This article highlights the importance of this change and its influence on the lives of New Zealanders residing in Australia. Read More.

Family Provision application

All Is Fair In Love And War: Family Provision Application

10.05.23

The article explains how to contest a will through a Family Provision Application (FPA). It highlights three factors to consider before making an FPA claim, including eligibility, time limits, and the factors the court considers when determining the claim. The article concludes by stating that Ramsden Lawyers can assist those considering making an FPA claim or supporting eligible individuals who wish to pursue a claim against an estate for further provision. Read More.

Global Financial Crisis

Ground-Hog Day? The Next Global Financial Crisis

05.05.23

The recent collapse of major banks like Silicon Valley Bank, Signature Bank, and Credit Suisse has created a crisis in the global banking sector. This situation has far-reaching implications for the financial system, causing investors to brace for share market turmoil and international fallout. Despite policymakers' reassurances, ambiguity and uncertainty remain, calling into question tighter banking restrictions implemented after the 2008 Global Financial Crisis. The Council of Financial Regulators in Australia has advised that the Australian banking sector is well-capitalized, but experts predict a weaker opening in the Australian share market. Businesses may need to consider insolvency options, and Ramsden Lawyers can provide expert legal advice to navigate these complex processes. Read More.

Will

The Importance Of Having A Will: Answering Top Questions

19.04.23

Planning for the inevitable is an integral part of life, and creating a Will is one way to do so. A Will is a legal document that outlines how you want your assets to be distributed after you pass away, and it can also include instructions for other matters, such as the care of minor children. This article answers some top questions about Wills, including why they are crucial, what makes them valid, and what happens if you don't have one. It highlights the importance of having a Will in minimising family disputes and costly legal battles, clarifying how you want your assets to be distributed, and ensuring that your final wishes are fulfilled. Read More.

Instalment Contracts

The Payment Puzzle – A Guide To Instalment Contracts

19.04.23

Is your contract subject to payment of instalments or a sizable deposit? You may have just entered into an ‘instalment contract’. In this article our commercial law team explores what an instalment contract is, what to look out for and the impacts that this type of contract can have on both buyers and sellers. Read More.

Will

The Dangers Of Not Having A Will: Who Will Inherit Your Estate?

19.04.23

What will happen to your assets if you pass away without a valid Will? You could leave your loved ones with financial difficulties and uncertainty. The rules for distributing your estate can be complicated, and if you have other dependents, they may be entitled to a share of your assets. To avoid these risks and ensure that your assets are distributed according to your wishes, it's essential to have a valid Will in place. Our expert Estate Planning team can assist you in safeguarding your assets and providing financial support to your loved ones. Contact us today to learn more about the importance of estate planning and how we can help you protect your assets and loved ones. Read More.

Negligence

Court Ruling And Its Implications: Failure To Remove Intoxicated Customers Due To Negligence

18.04.23

Assert your authority over your personal injury claim and secure the rightful compensation owed to you. At Ramsden Law, our seasoned team of personal injury lawyers is prepared to navigate you through the intricacies of your case, safeguarding your rights at every turn. Recognising the distinctiveness of each scenario, we're dedicated to evaluating your case diligently, amassing persuasive evidence, and championing your cause fervently. Refuse to let your injuries be overlooked for compensation. Read More.

Divorce

Why Queensland Is Australia's Top Divorce State And What Causes IT

14.04.23

The Family Law team at Ramsden Lawyers recently delved into why Queensland is currently experiencing the highest divorce rate in Australia. Recent statistics indicate that in 2021, the crude divorce rate in Queensland was 2.6 per 1,000 people, with 13,475 divorces granted to individuals in the state. This represents a notable increase of approximately 14% from the previous year's record. In this article, the Family Law team suggests that various factors may contribute to this trend, such as changes in societal norms and attitudes towards marriage and divorce, as well as the sheer size of the state's population. However, divorce is a complex issue, and additional factors may be at play. The team's insights may be valuable for individuals and families navigating the divorce process or considering separation, as they provide a deeper understanding of the trends and underlying issues involved in this process. Read More.

Estate Planning

Estate Planning For Young People: Why Gen Z And Millennials Need To Write A Will

14.04.23

The COVID-19 pandemic has made young people recognise the importance of estate planning, regardless of their financial situation. Ramsden Lawyers Will & Estates team that even Generation Z and Millennials, who are starting their careers and have no significant assets, should have an estate plan in place to ensure their wishes are preserved. Their loved ones are taken care of. Estate planning provides peace of mind and safeguards assets in the event of unexpected circumstances. Read More.