Latest publications
Estate planning and superannuation — How to have the last laugh
In brief Superannuation is a funny thing. It is yours, but you can’t have it yet. It gets paid out when you die, but the money may not go to whom you would like. You are basically saving all your life for something you might never receive and you probably don’t even…
Employers beware of acting against employees with family responsibilities
In Brief Most business owners are very sympathetic to their staff members’ obligations to their families and generally except that emergencies arise which may require an employee to leave the workplace. However, it can be very frustrating when this arises at a busy time or frequently over a short period. In a recent case…
The Liberals are in implications for employers and employees
In Brief The Liberals are in and Tony Abbot has promised to “restore the balance back to the sensible centre” in industrial relations by not replacing, but improving the current Fair Work Act. What does this actually mean for employees and employers? From the Liberal Party’s proposed policies we feel that…
Lost in translation — Why you need a lawyer to write a Will
In Brief Ever had difficulty communicating when travelling in a foreign country? Just like writing a will, the difficulty is not knowing what you want to say, the difficulty is simply how to say it. The last thing you want is for your last words to be lost in translation. Angela Harvey, partner…
Your Separation Checklist
In BriefThinking of separating from your partner or are you already separated? To protect you and your family here are some things to consider.When couples separate or one party decides to end the relationship there are lots of things that need to be sorted out. Separation takes its toll on people…
Leaving a legacy: Doing charity the right way
In brief The idea of leaving a legacy to charity in your will that helps those who are less fortunate is certainly an attractive one. Getting your charitable gifts just right in your will can make things easier for everyone concerned after you have passed away. This article explores the gift (and…
Sexually Transmitted Debt: Are you liable for your ex’s debts upon separation?
In Brief Separating parties are often anxious to know whether they will become liable for their ex-partner’s debts upon separation. This article discusses sexually transmitted debt and what it means in the context of family law proceedings. What is “sexually transmitted debt”? “Sexually transmitted debt” is when you become liable for…
The Virgin Look Book: Can you control the appearance of your employees?
In Brief One issue commonly faced by employers is getting employees to comply with dress and grooming standards, and when an employee chooses not to or cannot comply, determining what their options are. This was the scenario faced by Virgin Airlines with one of its cabin staff, a Mr David Taleski, whose employment…
A Practical Guide to Warnings in the Workplace
What is a workplace warning? A warning is a communication be it verbal (more informal) or written (more formal) to an employee about their performance or conduct at work. They are a mechanism for communicating an identified area where an employee needs improvement, or where conduct does not meet the requisite standard. The aim is…
Hiring a worker who is not an Australian citizen? Your responsibilities have now increased
In Brief For some businesses attracting and retaining employees in low skill or alternately highly specialised roles is an ongoing challenge. To stay competitive and retain control of the labour spend, it can be necessary to employ workers who are not citizens of Australia. There has always been an element of…