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QBCC Licence and Nominee Responsibilities: Everything You Need to Know
The Queensland Building and Construction Commission (QBCC) plays a pivotal role in regulating Queensland’s construction industry. A QBCC licence is essential for individuals and companies undertaking building work, ensuring compliance with legal, financial, and operational standards. For companies, appointing a qualified nominee under their QBCC licence is equally critical. This article explores the significance of a QBCC licence, the responsibilities of nominees, and how bo

John Merlo
Feb 6, 20254 min read


Everything You Need to Know About QCAT in Queensland
This article answers common questions about QCAT, its processes, and how it can help you resolve legal matters efficiently.

John Merlo
Jan 31, 20255 min read


Queensland Home Warranty Scheme: Your Guide to Protecting Your Residential Investment
This detailed guide explores every facet of the scheme, from legislative foundations to recent reforms.

John Merlo
Jan 30, 20255 min read


QBCC Adjudication: Why Choose Adjudication Over Litigation for Disputes
QBCC adjudication offers a fast, cost-effective way to resolve construction payment disputes under the Building Industry Fairness Act 2017.

John Merlo
Jan 26, 202515 min read


Injunction in Queensland: A Comprehensive Guide to Court-Ordered Relief
Discover how injunctions in QLD work, including types, key legal principles, and steps to obtain court-ordered relief in urgent disputes.

John Merlo
Jan 26, 202520 min read


AS4000 General Conditions of Contract: Key Issues and Matters
Explore the key and distinguishing features, common amendments, and practical implications of AS4000 standard contracts.

John Merlo
Jan 23, 20254 min read


The Evolution of Project Trust Accounts in Queensland's Construction Industry
Queensland's Project Trust Account regime: 2025 changes, impacts on construction industry, and how to prepare for enhanced payment security.

John Merlo
Jan 21, 20255 min read


Understanding Calderbank Offers: A Strategic Tool in Building and Construction Litigation
Discover how Calderbank Offers can reduce costs, encourage settlements, and influence court decisions.

John Merlo
Jan 19, 20255 min read


Understanding Wage Theft: New Legal Implications in Australia
As of 1 January 2025, significant amendments to the Fair Work Act 2009 will come into force, criminalising intentional wage theft.

John Merlo
Jan 18, 20254 min read


Defamation Law in Australia: A Comprehensive Guide
In this article, we are diving into the murky waters of defamation law in Australia.

John Merlo
Jan 17, 20254 min read


Beyond Libel and Slander: Australia's Unified Approach to Defamation
This comprehensive guide will walk you through the intricacies of defamation law, helping you grasp the nuances of libel and slander.

John Merlo
Jan 17, 20256 min read


Navigating the Adjudication Process: A Comprehensive Guide to Resolving Payment Disputes in Queensland
This article delves into the adjudication process, outlining how to apply for adjudication, the role of adjudicators, and the specific steps

John Merlo
Jan 10, 20256 min read


Understanding Unconscionable Conduct in Contracts: Protecting Against Unfair Business Practices
This article explores the nuances of unconscionable behavior, its legal ramifications, and its impact on contractual agreements.

John Merlo
Jan 9, 20257 min read


Understanding Liquidated Damages Clauses in Construction Contracts
This article explores the essentials of liquidated damages and distinguishes them from unliquidated damages.

John Merlo
Jan 8, 20257 min read


Comprehensive Guide to Building and Construction Law: Navigating Legalities in the Construction Industry
Discover a comprehensive guide to building and construction law, covering licensing, contracts, dispute resolution, and compliance.

John Merlo
Jan 7, 20256 min read


Building Defects: Understand the Rights of Apartment Owners in Queensland
Discover your rights as an apartment owner facing building defects in Queensland.

John Merlo
Dec 29, 20245 min read


Adjudication in Queensland: A Comprehensive Guide
Explore the adjudication process in Queensland under the Building Industry Fairness Act 2017.

John Merlo
Dec 29, 20244 min read


Defects Liability Changes under new legislation
Did you know that the Building Industry Fairness Act (QLD) 2017(BIF Act) repealed the Building Construction Industry (security of payments) Act (QLD) 2004? Amongst other key changes made the defects liability period notice for building and construction work was changed. The BIF Act also made changes to the QBCC Act in relation to retention monies or security held under a building contract. The BIF Act introduces: A statutory default defects liability period of 12 months from
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Mar 28, 20201 min read


Insolvency and COVID19/Coronavirus
Did you know that because of the COVID19/Coronavirus The Federal government has taken urgent steps to assist construction companies and other persons from insolvency? The federal government has taken the action to protect construction companies and other people at risk of insolvency given the current crisis. The Federal Government is temporarily increasing the current minimum threshold for creditors issuing a statutory demand on a company under the Corporations Act 2001 from
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Mar 28, 20202 min read


Gas pipeline case reinforces the sacrosanct nature of bank guarantees
Saipem Australia Pty Ltd v GLNG Operations Pty Ltd [2017] QSC 294 This case considered the operation of section 67J of the Queensland Building and Construction Commission Act 1991 (Qld) (QBCCA). The law Section 67J of the QBCCA provided that a party to a building contract can recover a security or retention amount owed under the contract, provided they give written notice of their intention to do so etc. Subsection 2 qualified that in order to be compliant, the notice m
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Mar 28, 20203 min read
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