Publications

Cinematic photo of a construction company director in suit and hi-vis holding a ‘QBCC’ folder outside an office, with a Queensland building site blurred in the background, conveying director accountability after a company collapse.

QBCC Excluded Individuals: The 2026 Guide to Director Bans After a Company Collapse

A comprehensive guide to the QBCC's Excluded Individual policy for 2026. Learn what triggers a three-year or lifetime ban for directors after a company collapse, how to challenge a notice, and the steps to mitigate your risk.

John Merlo

Feb 1713 min read

A cinematic photograph of a Queensland construction site at sunrise, with a white hard hat and a worker's hands holding a clipboard with documents in the foreground. A subtle "APPROVED" stamp overlay is visible.

The QBCC Fit and Proper Person Test: Your Complete 2026 Guide

A comprehensive guide to understanding and passing the QBCC's 'fit and proper person' test in 2026. Learn about the core assessment criteria, your absolute duty of disclosure, and your legal options for challenging a negative decision from the QBCC.

John Merlo

Feb 1710 min read

A close-up photograph shows a metal sign with the letters "CFMEU" engulfed in orange and yellow flames, resting on a bed of glowing red and grey embers and ash. The metal is blackened and charred from the fire. The background is completely black.

How QLD Construction Can Navigate the Legal Fallout from the CFMEU Corruption Crisis

The Watson Report's findings on CFMEU corruption have created a perilous new legal landscape for QLD builders. This guide breaks down the threats from new AML laws, anti-corruption crackdowns, and mandatory reporting, providing a clear action plan for survival.

John Merlo

Feb 1522 min read

Cinematic dawn view of a Brisbane construction site with cranes, showing a contractor’s gloved hands holding an open contract where a “within 5 business days” clause is highlighted, alongside a site diary on a clipboard and subtle clock/calendar graphics, with empty space for the article title.

The Contractor's Guide to Time Bar Clauses in Queensland

A comprehensive guide for Queensland contractors on understanding and managing time bar clauses (conditions precedent) in construction contracts. Learn about the risks of claim extinguishment, the interaction with the BIF Act, and proactive strategies to protect your payments and avoid disputes.

John Merlo

Feb 1317 min read

Cinematic Queensland construction site at sunset with a building contract on a clipboard in the foreground, showing a “Notice to Remedy Breach” header, symbolising lawful termination for repudiation.

Repudiation in QLD Construction Contracts

A comprehensive guide for builders and homeowners on understanding and navigating repudiation in Queensland construction contracts. Learn to identify a serious breach, follow the correct legal process for termination, and avoid the costly pitfalls of wrongful termination with insights into the roles of the QBCC and QCAT.

John Merlo

Feb 1117 min read

Builder in hi-vis stands at a Queensland home construction site at sunset, reviewing paperwork on a clipboard and a phone, suggesting a payment dispute.

Quantum Meruit QLD: A 2026 Guide to Fair Payment for Construction Work

Discover how to use a Quantum Meruit claim in Queensland to secure fair payment for construction work when there's no valid contract. This guide covers the role of QCAT, evidence requirements, and alternatives like the BIF Act.

John Merlo

Feb 1016 min read

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