There will no doubt be ongoing and continued national debate about the housing market, including issues relating to access to superannuation and foreign investment. Here we take a look at some of the recent measures that have been implemented in Victoria in the two important areas of stamp duty exemptions and concessions, and to address underquoting by real estate agents. Read More
We also take a look at the Government's key changes announced in relation to underquoting by real estate agents. These were announced on 1 May 2017. Underquoting is when a property is advertised at a price that is less than the estimated selling price, the seller's asking price, or at a price already rejected by the seller. Read More
What will happen to my online life after I die? This is not a question our great grandparents would have dreamt of asking however it is fast becoming a modern dilemma. Online life is now a normal part of our existence. Material assets can be identified, valued and bequeathed according to our wishes as set out in our Will. However, it’s not quite so straight forward dealing with our digital assets, although making a digital register can help. Read More
One of the protections provided by the Retail Leases Act 2003 (the Act) to retail tenants is the right to a minimum term of 5 years. Security of tenure is extremely important for businesses which operate out of leased premises. It is vital for tenants to have time to build goodwill and add value to their business as well as to depreciate the costs associated with fitting out the premises. Read More
Binding Financial Agreements (BFAs) can be entered into before you commence a de facto relationship (including same sex) or marry, during, or after the relationship has broken down and you have separated. Read More
A de facto/domestic relationship means that you are not married to each other, you are not related by family and you are living together on a genuine domestic basis. The law that applies to same-sex couples and heterosexual couples is the same. Isn’t hindsight a wonderful thing? When setting up house together it’s much better to get the legal and financial issues sorted out earlier rather than later for both your sakes. Taking legal advice in the beginning when everything’s rosy may give you both peace of mind. Breaking up isn’t usually front of mind at the start of a relationship, however planning ahead and knowing your rights in case the relationship does break down in the future or if a partner dies will help you know where you stand in a variety of situations. Read More