Latest publications
Know Your Construction Contract — A Cautionary ‘Time Bar’ Tale from Westconnex M5 Motorway Tunnel Project Sydney
The NSW Court of Appeal has confirmed that Owners Corporations can seek freezing orders to stop developers using SPV structures from divesting assets, strengthening recovery prospects in defect litigation.Construction contracts often include detailed provisions setting out prescribed regimes for the provision of claims. Such regimes provide for the form and detail…
One Development, Two Towers and Two Occupation Certificates (one Interim and one Final). When Does the Home Building Act Statutory Warranty Period Commence?
The NSW Supreme Court has clarified when statutory warranty periods start for staged developments under the Home Building Act 1989 (NSW). In The Owners – Strata Plan No 93543 v Zhang (No 3) [2025] NSWSC 571, the Court examined completion dates for separate buildings, impacting limitation periods for defect claims.Most proceedings brought…
Strata Schemes Legislation Amendment (Miscellaneous) Bill 2025 — Round 4 Proposed Changes
The proposed NSW strata reform Bill introduced into Parliament on 19 November 2025 aims to clarify existing provisions, boost consumer protections, and reduce regulatory burdens. Key changes include exemptions for two-lot schemes, stricter rules on strata manager terms and commissions, mandatory committee training, and tightened rules on bonds, fees, and…
How to Choose the Right Construction Contract: AS4122 Conditions vs Commercial Terms of Business
Selecting the right contract is critical for consultants and contractors in the construction industry. The choice between AS4122 General Conditions of Contract for Consultants and Commercial Terms of Business can significantly impact project risk, timelines, and outcomes. In this article, we break down the key differences, explain when each option…
Love may be dead, but the inheritance lives on: Takeaways from Chie v Veale
Learn how the NSW Supreme Court case Chie v Veale [2025] highlights estate planning risks after separation and why updating your will matters. Discover practical strategies to prevent disputes and ensure your wishes are honored.The Supreme Court of New South Wales not only delivered a decision, but a lesson in not leaving your estate…
‘Tis the Season to Avoid Folly: Workplace Christmas Parties (2025 Edition)
As the festive season approaches, many organisations are preparing for their annual Christmas parties. While these events are meant to be fun, they remain an extension of the workplace — meaning employers must balance celebration with responsibility. Creating a safe, respectful environment is essential to avoid legal and compliance risks during…
Baby Priya’s Bill: Landmark Fair Work Amendment Protecting Paid Parental Leave After Child Loss
Baby Priya’s Bill amends the Fair Work Act to protect employer-funded paid parental leave for parents after child loss, stillbirth, or adoption.Baby Priya’s Bill (‘Bill’) passed parliament on 3 November 2025 after parents of 42-day old Priya endured a loss no parent should have to suffer. Following the tragic passing of her daughter, the mother…
Strata Law Changes — Effective 27 October 2025
What do the latest NSW strata law changes mean for owners and committees? On 27 October 2025, the next stage of reforms under the Strata Schemes Legislation Amendment Act 2025 came into effect, introducing stronger compliance powers for NSW Fair Trading, fairer financial hardship arrangements for levy payments, and new…
How does statutory interpretation impact building disputes in NSW?
How does statutory interpretation impact building disputes in NSW? Written laws like the Home Building Act, building codes, and industry standards often leave room for multiple interpretations. This article explains how courts apply statutory interpretation rules, such as the extrinsic materials rule under section 34 of the NSW Interpretation Act…
Proving Major Building Defects Under the Home Building Act
What qualifies as a major defect in residential buildings under NSW law? Defects can range from minor issues to serious structural problems, but understanding the legal definition of a ‘major defect’ under section 18E(4) of the Home Building Act 1989 (NSW) is critical before making a claim. This article explains the key…