One Year of Enhanced UCT Laws – Achievements and Ongoing Challenges

Australia’s strengthened Unfair Contract Terms (UCT) regime marked its first anniversary on November 9, 2024. The reforms sought to empower consumers and small businesses by curbing exploitative clauses in standard form contracts, such as hidden termination rights or unilateral variations.…

New Concessions for Off-the-Plan Purchases in Strata Subdivisions

Introduction On 21 October 2024, a new concession scheme was introduced for off-the-plan (OTP) property purchases within strata subdivisions. This concession aims to make OTP properties more accessible by offering significant savings on stamp duty. The concession will be available…

What are Your Choices Instead of Going to Court?

When disputes arise, people often think that their only option is to go to court. However, litigation can be a lengthy, expensive, and stressful process. Fortunately, there are alternative methods available in resolving disputes that are often quicker, less formal,…

AI Regulation in Australia: Current Landscape and Future Directions

In recent years, the progress made by developments in Artificial Intelligence (AI) has reshaped global industries and businesses. In response, governments are working to establish regulations that can manage this transformative technology. Australia, recognising the immense potential and associated risks,…

Right to Disconnect After Working Hours

Starting from 26 August 2024 and thereafter, the new rules of “the right to disconnect” will take effect in Australia. The Australia Institute’s 2023 report indicated that Australian workers log an average of 280 hours of overtime annually, potentially resulting…

Cyberstalking in Victoria

Cyberstalking has emerged as a serious societal issue affecting people of all age and gender, particularly women, in this digital age. It is reported that as many as 7.5 million people experience cyberstalking each year around the world, but less…

Personal Safety Intervention Orders

What is a Personal Safety Intervention Order? A Personal Safety Intervention Order (PSIO) is a court order to protect a person and/or their children from physical or mental harm caused by another person who is not a family member. This…

Penalties That You Could Face For A Drink Driving Offence

Driving is a demanding task that requires concentration and sound decision-making. Driving with alcohol in our system can blunt our alertness and reduce our ability to react to situations. In Victoria, drink driving remains one of the major factors that…

Ending A Lease Early and Lease Breaking.

The termination of a lease in Victoria is governed by Victoria’s Residential Tenancies Act 1997. All sections on this page refers to the Residential Tenancies Act 1997. Ending a Periodic Lease If a renter wishes to end a periodic lease…