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Building a Scalable Preliminary Agreement System for Your QLD Project Pipeline
Ditch the risky, one-off preliminary agreements. This guide shows Queensland property developers how to build a scalable PWA system to standardise builder engagement, manage risk across their project pipeline, and ensure compliance with QBCC and BIF Act regulations from day one.

John Merlo
Oct 2913 min read


A Developer's Legal Triage Plan for Defending a QBCC Construction Dispute
A notice from the QBCC demands a rapid, calculated response. This guide is your legal triage plan—a set of non-negotiable actions to take within the first 48 hours to assess the claim, mitigate exposure, and establish a strong defensive position.

John Merlo
Oct 1812 min read


Legally Qualify a Statutory Declaration for Disputed Subcontractor Payments
A guide for head contractors on how to legally qualify a statutory declaration when a payment dispute with a subcontractor arises. Learn the "carve-out" strategy to ensure you get paid by the principal without committing perjury, and understand the steps to take when escalating the dispute through the QBCC or QCAT.

John Merlo
Oct 1716 min read


The Red Alert Adjudication Playbook: Your First 24 Hours to Fight a Lowball Payment Schedule in QLD
When a principal contractor hits you with a lowball payment schedule, your first 24 hours are critical. This playbook provides a time-critical guide for Queensland subcontractors to fight back using the BIF Act adjudication process, from gathering evidence to filing a claim and enforcing a decision.

John Merlo
Oct 1614 min read


The Subcontractor’s Trap - How Hidden Costs in QLD Contracts Are Killing Your Profit
In the rush to secure work, it's easy to sign a subcontractor agreement that looks standard but is loaded with "hidden costs"—clauses that can decimate your profit margin, delay payments, and expose your business to catastrophic risk. This guide dissects these contractual traps and explains your rights under Queensland law.

John Merlo
Oct 1416 min read


The Subcontractor's Shield: Using Insurance Clauses to Defeat Unfair Back-Charges and Set-off claims in QLD
A comprehensive guide for Queensland subcontractors on how to strategically use their subcontract, insurance policies, and the BIF Act to challenge and defeat unfair back-charges and set-off claims from head contractors. Learn the step-by-step defensive playbook to protect your payments and your business.

John Merlo
Oct 820 min read


Subcontractors' Charges: A Subby's Ultimate Guide to Getting Paid in Queensland
Queensland subcontractors struggling with unpaid invoices? This comprehensive guide reveals how subcontractors' charges under the BIF Act can freeze payments at the source and secure what you're owed. Learn step-by-step procedures, strict deadlines, and your legal rights to protect cash flow and prevent business-destroying payment delays. Don't let contractors' poor practices jeopardize your survival—discover your powerful legal remedies today.

John Merlo
Aug 1515 min read


BIF Act: Your Sword and Shield for Payment Protection in Queensland
Struggling with unpaid invoices in the QLD construction industry? The BIF Act is your most powerful tool for getting paid. Our comprehensive guide breaks down the strict deadlines for payment claims, the severe consequences of late payment schedules, and your legal right to suspend work for non-payment. Learn how to enforce your rights and protect your business's cash flow.

John Merlo
Aug 1311 min read


Project Trust Accounts: A Builder’s Guide to Queensland’s New Rules
Queensland's Project Trust Account system represents a fundamental shift in construction payment management. If you're a builder or contractor, understanding your PTA obligations isn't just compliance—it's crucial for business survival. Are you prepared? Do you know when a PTA is required and how to manage one correctly? This comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know.

John Merlo
Aug 129 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 106 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
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