Australia: Trials & Appeals & Compensation

On 30 June 2026 the Supreme Court of New South Wales handed down its judgment in Forever Grateful Holdings Pty Ltd v Chief Commissioner of State Revenue [2026] NSWSC 761, which clarified the point in time at which the relevant facts are to be considered when determining a duty liability arising under the Duties Act 1997 (NSW) (Duties Act).

In Gawthrop v Bendigo Health [2026] VSC 157, the Supreme Court of Victoria examined the context surrounding informed consent. The plaintiff presenting to hospital in labour was advised to undergo a vaginal examination as part of routine care for admission to the birthing unit.

The decision in AAI Limited t/as GIO v Williams [2026] NSWPICMP 414 was delivered on 15 June 2026 and published on 26 June 2026.

Commercial leases in NSW are typically drafted by landlords' solicitors with terms that heavily favor the property owner. Four key provisions—outgoings escalation, make good obligations, personal guarantees, and rent review mechanics—routinely create six-figure financial exposures that are negotiable before signing but nearly impossible to modify afterward.

Victoria's Justice Legislation Amendment Act 2025 fundamentally reshapes institutional accountability for child abuse by expanding vicarious liability beyond employees to include volunteers and others...

Cooper Grace Ward's workers compensation podcast examines the landmark High Court case of CCIG Investments Pty Ltd v Schokman, exploring critical questions about vicarious liability and scope of employment arising from an unusual workplace incident on Daydream Island. Legal experts who appeared before the High Court discuss the case's implications for workers compensation law across Queensland and Australia.

Special counsel Andrew Vella from the litigation and dispute resolution team sits down with private client partner Scott Hay-Bartlem for an engaging conversation about his professional journey and what drives...

The Supreme Court has delivered clarification and detailed reasoning regarding the practical application of section 36 of the Civil Liability Act 2003 (Qld) with respect to a claim for negligence against a Council performing works, which included placing a barricade across a footpath.

In a significant ruling for insolvency practitioners, the NSW Supreme Court granted liquidators their full remuneration claim of $645,470.40 without any discount, demonstrating the judiciary's willingness to approve substantial fees when supported by thorough documentation.