Australia: Real Estate

When can a Queensland commercial landlord lawfully lock a tenant out for unpaid rent, and what legal protections exist for tenants facing forfeiture? This guide examines the statutory requirements under the Property Law Act 2023 (Qld), the circumstances in which a lockout may be challenged, and the remedies available when re-entry is unlawful.

Commercial leases in Queensland are generally binding for the full agreed term, and tenants cannot usually terminate early simply because a business is struggling financially, relocating, closing down, or experiencing economic hardship.

The Australian Competition and Consumer Commission has issued its first formal rejection under the country's new mandatory merger regime, blocking Coles' proposed acquisition of a leasehold interest for a supermarket development in Kalgoorlie. This landmark decision signals a significant shift in how regulators will scrutinize supermarket expansion projects, particularly in regional markets, and raises critical questions about the competitive implications of greenfield developments that don't involve acquir

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).

Closing a business does not end your lease obligations in Australia; if you walk away without a formal exit strategy, you may face significant financial liability...

On 4 March 2026, the Supreme Court of NSW handed down a decision which discussed the distinction between works defects and incomplete works, explored whether mere dissatisfaction of works is deemed defective, and provided a reminder of the importance of an expert witness’ independence when preparing a report (lest their opinion be given less weight as a consequence).

Commercial property acquisitions in Australia involve significant financial exposure and long-term commitment. Whether the asset is a warehouse, retail premises, shopping centre or office building...

Mr. Elkhouri (Elkhouri) owned Lot 11, a pent­house apart­ment in an 11 lot res­i­den­tial stra­ta scheme at Point Piper, Syd­ney. The lot occu­pied the top two lev­els of the build­ing and includ­ed bal­conies...

A lot owner successfully claimed damages against an owners corporation for breach of statutory duty, with the Tribunal awarding costs under rule 38 despite the final award being under $30,000. The owners corporation's attempts to reduce the claim amount through pre-payments and Calderbank offers were rejected by the Tribunal.