Property Law Case Spotlight: Muschinski v Dodds
26th March, 2026 The High Court decision in Muschinski v Dodds (1985) 160 CLR 583 is an important case in Australian property law. It helps courts decide what happens when joint property arrangements fail. The case involved a de facto couple who bought a house together. One partner contributed most of the money, while the […]
Reverse Mortgages and Estate Planning in NSW
14th March, 2026 Many Australians reach retirement with significant wealth tied up in their home. However, retirement income does not always keep up with rising living costs. As a result, some retirees explore ways to access property equity without selling their home. One option is a reverse mortgage. Understanding how reverse mortgages work is […]
Life Insurance & Estate Planning in Australia
1st March, 2026 Life insurance is often a key part of estate planning. However, many Australians wonder whether family members can contest life insurance payouts. Understanding how life insurance interacts with estate planning can prevent conflict and protect beneficiaries. How Life Insurance Payouts Work A life insurance policy usually names a primary beneficiary who receives […]
Frequent Flyer Points in Wills and Estate Planning
20th February, 2026 When preparing a Will, most people focus on property, physical assets, bank accounts and superannuation. However, frequent flyer points are often forgotten. Although they are not cash, they can hold significant practical value. Therefore, they should be considered as part of a comprehensive estate plan. Many Australians accumulate points through programs […]
The $10M iPhone Will: Lessons for Estate Planning
12th February, 2026 A recent NSW Court of Appeal case highlights the risks of informal Wills and DIY estate planning. In late 2025, the Court of Appeal considered the matter of Brad Anthony Wheatley v Ronald William Peek [2025] NSWCA 265. In that case, a 79‑year‑old man drafted a note on his iPhone indicating how […]
Estate Planning for Business Owners in Australia
1st January, 2026 Estate planning is often associated with personal matters only. Most people mainly think of Wills, Powers of Attorney, or Enduring Guardianship documents. However, business owners must also plan for what happens to their business. If a business owner becomes ill or passes away, operations can be disrupted. As a result, employees, […]
Leaving Bequests to a Minor in Australia
17th December, 2025 Many Australians choose to leave property or assets to their children or grandchildren. However, complications arise when a beneficiary is under eighteen years old. In Australia, a minor cannot legally receive an outright gift under a Will. Therefore, careful estate planning becomes essential. When a child is under eighteen, an adult […]
Understanding the Specifics of Employee Contracts in NSW
9th December, 2025 Employee contracts shape the working relationship from the very first day. They outline expectations, rights, and obligations for both parties. Although they often appear simple, these documents contain important terms that influence workplace stability. Therefore, employees and employers should understand all details before signing anything. Role Clarity and Workplace Expectations Clear […]
Wills for Indigenous Australians: Key Considerations in NSW
26th November, 2025 Everyone has important considerations when preparing a Will, and there is an additional set of cultural considerations for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. These factors can shape how a Will is drafted, and they may affect decisions about kinship, cultural items, and burial wishes. Consequently, thoughtful planning ensures your wishes are […]
How to Support a Child With a Disability in Your Will
18th November, 2025 Parents of children with disabilities face unique considerations when preparing a Will. Beyond dividing assets, careful planning ensures your child’s long-term wellbeing. You must address daily care, accommodation, medical needs, social inclusion, and financial security. Why Direct Inheritance Can Be Risky Some parents leave the majority of their estate to other […]